Non-descriptive

Non-descriptive refers to something that lacks detailed or vivid qualities of description. It avoids providing specific details, sensory information, or evocative language. A Non-descriptive piece, whether writing, artwork, or other form of communication, fails to paint a clear picture or convey a strong impression of its subject. It often relies on broad, generalized statements or lacks the specificity needed to help the recipient fully visualize or understand the item being discussed. The opposite of detailed, it leaves much to the imagination, either intentionally or unintentionally. This term highlights the absence of those specific characteristics.

Non-descriptive meaning with examples

• The report's overview was frustratingly Non-descriptive, mentioning only 'projects were completed' without providing any specifics about deliverables or results. Stakeholders struggled to understand the success. Its brevity left people unclear. Without clear articulation, the presentation's lack of detail created a gap between what happened and what was communicated, making it nearly impossible to assess performance.
• Her response to the question was Non-descriptive, simply stating 'the weather was nice.' Without additional context, whether that was a simple answer to a simple question or a failure to engage the details, the comment provided no sense of the experience or visual elements and didn't indicate temperature or how 'nice' was defined. The audience was left feeling detached, lacking any sense of that particular moment.
• The abstract art piece was intentionally Non-descriptive, using abstract shapes and colors to evoke emotion rather than represent any specific object or scene. Viewers were asked to project their own feelings and interpretations onto the artwork, a style which is in direct contrast to hyperrealism. This lack of explicit subject matter allowed for a wide range of reactions and personal meanings.
• The instruction manual for the product was Non-descriptive, offering vague steps like 'connect the wires'. It failed to provide specific guidance about where to attach specific wires or troubleshooting instructions which meant the user could not complete the task. This omission led to confusion and frustration from the consumer, rendering the product difficult if not impossible to use.
• The job advertisement included a Non-descriptive job description that merely listed 'experience required'. There was a complete omission of the role's responsibilities, the required skills, or the company culture, leaving potential candidates unsure if they qualified or even what the job was. This made applications less effective.