Precise

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "Precise" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to describe something that is exact, accurate, or clearly defined. For example, "The instructions were precise, leaving no room for confusion." Alternative expressions include "exact" and "specific."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They show Starbucks have taken a bit of a knock as a result [of public outrage]," he said, although he was not able to release the precise figures.

The Guardian - Business

Raymond Carver (1976) Possibly the most economical short story writer in this list, Carver, with his precise, punchy prose, conveys in a few words what many novelists take several pages to elucidate.

The Guardian

That delivery, so angry and precise and limpid in its movement off the pitch, more than the ball that took out Clarke's off-stump, was the ball that signalled the end.

The Guardian - Sport

Even in a simple court dance, he's emphatic about the precise musical beat on which the foot has to be placed flat on the ground, the accent of a plié, the height at which a pointed toe should be lifted, the twist or curve of a torso.

The Guardian

£8.5m of Norwich's money to be precise, and advanced arithmetic tells us that that works out at, let's see now, yes, £8.5m per goal.

The Guardian - Sport

The bill, setting out precise details of the legal purge, will be guided through parliament by the Ministry of Justice.

The Guardian

Ive told Parker: "I thought it would be interesting if it were less precise, and just a little bit more spitty... more analog and more primitive, and I think, in that way, somehow more ominous".

The Guardian - Tech

I'm regularly overtaken by men in banana-yellow Lycra, my view of the road suddenly obscured by a disgustingly precise representation of their pumping buttocks.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The venom directed at Lee this week simply reflects the desperation within the ranks of Fianna Fáil as it faces two crucial byelections, local government elections and the European poll all on one day – 5 June to be precise.

The Guardian

Sir John Major has waited a very long time – 20 years to be precise.

The Guardian

The happiest day of my life was a few years earlier - 18 June 1994, to be precise, a day – maybe a day and a half – when everything went right.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, use "precise" measurements and figures to avoid ambiguity. For example, state "the meeting will start at 2:30 PM" instead of "the meeting will start in the afternoon."

Common error

Avoid using "precise" in casual conversations where a general estimate is sufficient. Saying "I'll be there at approximately 6 PM" is often more appropriate than attempting to give an exact, yet possibly inaccurate, time.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "precise" primarily functions to qualify nouns by indicating a high degree of accuracy, exactness, and attention to detail. As confirmed by Ludwig, this word effectively conveys that something is clearly defined and leaves no room for ambiguity. Many examples show it applies to figures, measurements, and directions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adjective "precise" is a very common term used to emphasize accuracy and exactness. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and its frequent appearance in news and media, formal business contexts, and science. While "precise" is generally neutral, it leans towards formal contexts due to its emphasis on detail. Alternatives such as "accurate", "exact", and "meticulous" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. When writing, use "precise" to avoid ambiguity but avoid overuse in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Accurate

Focuses on the correctness and truthfulness of information.

Exact

Emphasizes strict conformity to a standard or requirement.

Meticulous

Highlights extreme attention to detail and thoroughness.

Specific

Indicates a clear and particular definition or identification.

Definite

Stresses the absence of vagueness or ambiguity.

Well-defined

Emphasizes clarity and distinctness in meaning or outline.

Clearly stated

Focuses on the explicit and unambiguous presentation of information.

Strictly defined

Implies adherence to rigorous and exacting boundaries.

Pinpoint

Suggests locating or identifying something with great accuracy.

Verifiable

Highlights the ability to confirm the accuracy or truth of something.

FAQs

How can I use "precise" in a sentence?

You can use "precise" to describe something that is exact and accurate. For example, "The scientist took "precise measurements" of the chemical reaction".

What are some alternatives to the word "precise"?

Alternatives to "precise" include "accurate", "exact", and "meticulous". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it better to be "precise" or just accurate?

Being "precise" implies a high degree of accuracy and detail. While accuracy ensures correctness, "precise" adds a layer of exactness, making it suitable when specific details are crucial. Choose "accurate" when general correctness is sufficient.

When is it not necessary to be "precise"?

It's not necessary to be "precise" when approximations are acceptable or when providing exact details would be cumbersome or irrelevant. For example, estimating the number of attendees at a casual gathering doesn't require "exact figures".