B2 adjective Neutral

precise

/prɪˈsaɪs/

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 5
1

Could you tell me the precise time the meeting starts?

Could you tell me the exact time the meeting starts?

2

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.

3

That is the precise reason why I didn't want to go.

That is the exact reason why I didn't want to go.

Word Family

Noun
precision
Adverb
precisely
Adjective
precise
Related
preciseness
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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

1

Could you tell me the precise time the meeting starts?

everyday

Could you tell me the exact time the meeting starts?

2

The witness provided a precise description of the suspect's vehicle.

formal

The witness provided a very detailed and exact description of the suspect's vehicle.

3

That is the precise reason why I didn't want to go.

informal

That is the exact reason why I didn't want to go.

4

Academic writing requires the use of precise terminology to avoid confusion.

academic

Academic writing requires the use of exact and specific terminology to avoid confusion.

5

We need to provide a precise estimate of the project costs by Friday.

business

We need to provide an exact and detailed estimate of the project costs by Friday.

Word Family

Noun
precision
Adverb
precisely
Adjective
precise
Related
preciseness

Common Collocations

precise measurements exact measurements
precise instructions detailed and clear instructions
precise details exact details
precise location the exact spot
precise timing exact timing

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

precise vs accurate

Accurate means 'correct' (hitting the target), while precise means 'detailed' or 'consistent' (hitting the same spot repeatedly).

precise vs concise

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

Used as an attributive adjective before a noun (e.g., precise instructions). Used as a predicative adjective after a linking verb (e.g., The data must be precise).
🌍

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 Phrases

Related Words

subfactile

C1

To subtly manipulate or influence the underlying facts or foundational elements of a situation, often to guide an outcome without drawing attention. It describes the act of working beneath the surface to reshape how a project or narrative is constructed.

microchromtude

C1

Characterized by extremely subtle or minute variations in color that are often imperceptible without specialized equipment. It describes a state of high chromatic complexity where hues shift in very small, detailed increments.

hypersumcide

C1

Describing a state of systemic collapse or self-destruction caused by the excessive accumulation and aggregation of components or data. It characterizes a system that fails because the total sum of its parts has become too overwhelming to manage or sustain.

circumjugious

C1

A rare term referring to the state or quality of being joined, yoked, or bound together in a circular or encompassing fashion. It describes a structural or conceptual unity where elements are linked around a central point or perimeter.

perinascize

C1

A rare noun denoting the state, process, or environment surrounding the emergence or birth of a concept, system, or entity. It specifically refers to the transitional phase and the immediate peripheral conditions present at the very moment of a new beginning.

misdocancy

C1

The act or instance of incorrect, faulty, or negligent documentation, specifically referring to the failure to accurately record information in professional or clinical settings. It describes the state where records are inconsistent with the actual events or data they are intended to represent.

envivency

C1

To infuse a concept, artistic work, or atmosphere with a renewed sense of life, vividness, and energy. It describes the act of making something abstract feel tangible or animating a previously stagnant situation.

comheredist

C1

To systematically unify and distribute inherited elements, traditions, or data into a cohesive modern framework. It describes the active process of integrating legacy components into a functional, distributed system.

disnascy

C1

A formal term describing a state of failed or arrested emergence, where a concept, project, or entity fails to fully develop or be born. It refers to the quality of being perpetually 'almost started' but never achieving a functional or realized existence.

devolile

C1

Describing something that is subject to or characterized by the delegation of authority from a central body to a subordinate or local level. It is often used to describe legal or administrative processes where powers are transferred downward.

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