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Gray area
01
a situation that is hard to define or categorize and therefore unclear
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "gray area" and when to use it?
The idiom "gray area" is derived from the color gray, which is often associated with ambiguity and uncertainty. It has been used in the English language for many years to describe situations or issues that are not clearly defined, making it challenging to establish precise boundaries or categorize them definitively.
gray area
n
Example
The boundaries of privacy in the digital age often exist in a gray area, raising important questions about personal data and surveillance.
In artistic interpretation, there's a creative gray area that allows for diverse perspectives and meanings.
When it comes to environmental regulations, there's a gray area where economic interests clash with ecological concerns.
The ethics of using animals in medical testing can be a gray area, as it involves balancing scientific progress with animal welfare.
The report highlighted several gray areas in the financial dealings of the firm, suggesting potential risks.
