It’s pretty clear in this context what the author meant. My suggestion would then be not to pretend otherwise. And, in general, pay attention to the context to understand what meaning of a word is being used.

“I did not say it can only be used for personal relationships. I said it only _works_ in such relationships.”

I didn’t say I was right, I said you were wrong, and this is a fact. …

IMO this use is not unclear or imprecise. And you were previously arguing that it was important because “they are watering down important terms“, but now you say it’s about communicating more efficiently. You are inconsistent.