Weasel Word (Noun)
Meaning
An equivocal qualification; a word used to avoid making an outright assertion.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The politician's use of the phrase "up to" was a clear weasel word, as it allowed her to make a vague promise without committing to a specific outcome.
- The company's claim that their product was "virtually" waterproof was a weasel word that left many customers feeling misled.
- The professor's statement that the theory was "essentially" proven was a weasel word that sparked debate among his peers.
- The lawyer's use of the phrase "it is alleged" was a weasel word that allowed him to imply guilt without actually making an accusation.
- The company's advertising slogan "results may vary" was a weasel word that made it difficult for consumers to know what to expect from the product.