precise
The word 'precise' describes something that is marked by exactness and accuracy of expression or detail. It implies being very specific and avoiding any ambiguity or vagueness in information or measurements.
Examples
3 of 5Could you tell me the precise time the meeting starts?
Could you tell me the exact time the meeting starts?
The witness provided a precise description of the suspect's vehicle.
The witness provided a very detailed and exact description of the suspect's vehicle.
That is the precise reason why I didn't want to go.
That is the exact reason why I didn't want to go.
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'pre-sized' (precise) suit; it is cut exactly to your measurements so it fits perfectly.
Quick Quiz
The scientist needed ________ measurements to ensure the experiment was successful.
Correct!
The correct answer is: precise
Examples
Could you tell me the precise time the meeting starts?
everydayCould you tell me the exact time the meeting starts?
The witness provided a precise description of the suspect's vehicle.
formalThe witness provided a very detailed and exact description of the suspect's vehicle.
That is the precise reason why I didn't want to go.
informalThat is the exact reason why I didn't want to go.
Academic writing requires the use of precise terminology to avoid confusion.
academicAcademic writing requires the use of exact and specific terminology to avoid confusion.
We need to provide a precise estimate of the project costs by Friday.
businessWe need to provide an exact and detailed estimate of the project costs by Friday.
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
to be precise
to be exact
at that precise moment
at that exact point in time
with precise detail
with very specific information
Often Confused With
Accurate means 'correct' (hitting the target), while precise means 'detailed' or 'consistent' (hitting the same spot repeatedly).
Concise means brief and to the point, while precise means exact and detailed.
Usage Notes
Use 'precise' when you want to emphasize that something is exactly defined or measured, especially in scientific, technical, or legal contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'precise' when they just mean 'good' or 'correct.' Remember that 'precise' specifically highlights the level of detail or exactness.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'pre-sized' (precise) suit; it is cut exactly to your measurements so it fits perfectly.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'praecisus', meaning 'cut off' or 'abbreviated,' implying that something has been trimmed down to its essential, exact form.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many Western cultures, 'being precise' is a highly valued trait in professional and academic settings, associated with reliability and intelligence.
Quick Quiz
The scientist needed ________ measurements to ensure the experiment was successful.
Correct!
The correct answer is: precise
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
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