Precision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Precision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the quality of being exact, accurate, or clearly defined in various contexts, such as science, mathematics, or communication. Example: "The precision of the measurements was crucial for the success of the experiment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Books

Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(More implausibly, it also claims that its "precision" air strikes have killed precisely zero civilians).

The Economist

She explained that the sortie began with military precision around 9pm on Monday, that all of those who attacked their homes were wearing surgical gloves, masks and combat uniforms, that they arrived with wheelie bins stuffed with bricks, bottles and other missiles, and that the entire attack appeared to be well organised.

The Guardian

Acting with seeming impunity and military precision, the extremists oversaw an organised campaign that targeted dark-skinned immigrants, leftist opponents and gay people, according to state prosecutors, who spent 15 months investigating the openly xenophobic, antisemitic and homophobic group.

The Guardian

True to their style, one that has made them arguably the most enjoyable team to watch in Spain this season, the team that went on a 28-game run of scoring in every match, Villarreal showed personality as well as precision and pace.

The Guardian - Sport

The precision parachute drops and state-of-the-art aircraft were among the attractions of a military parade that was once the highlight of the country's National Day but which officials have not dared host since 2008.

The Guardian

He was allowed to maintain that stance pretty well unimpeded, thanks to the much-noted lack of forensic precision from the inquiry team.

The Guardian - Opinion

This lends to the curves a certain precision that is otherwise not possible generally.

WikiHow

"The planning, the precision of the pilots who with just a stopwatch and a compass landed gliders in the dark within 47 yards of the bridge is astonishing, even today.

The Guardian

Wary, too, of advocating a tyranny of the nominal – a taxonomic need to point and name, with the intent of citing and owning – when in fact I perceive no opposition between precision and mystery, or between naming and not knowing.

The Guardian - Books

Wars are organised chaos and, however much it likes to suggest that it is capable of precision bombing, it is clear that the US has got little idea of what has and has not been hit in this instance.

The Guardian

Last year, the planning department wrote new guidance on how developers must measure their shadow impacts with tremendous precision to comply with it.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical contexts, use "precision" to underscore the level of detail to which a value can be reliably measured.

Common error

Avoid using "precision" when you actually mean "accuracy". "Precision" refers to the repeatability of a measurement, while "accuracy" refers to how close a measurement is to the true value. For example, a scale can consistently display the wrong weight (high precision, low accuracy).

Linguistic Context

The noun "precision" primarily functions as an abstract noun referring to the quality of being exact or accurate. It often describes the degree of refinement with which an operation is performed or a measurement is made. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in various contexts, highlighting its role in conveying accuracy and detail.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Sport

11%

Books

8%

Less common in

Music

8%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "precision" is a versatile noun denoting exactness and accuracy, crucial in various contexts ranging from scientific measurements to military strategies. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While synonyms like "accuracy" and "exactitude" exist, "precision" particularly emphasizes the degree of refinement. Be mindful not to confuse it with "accuracy", which concerns correctness relative to a true value. Its frequent appearance in news, sports, books, and music highlights its broad applicability, making it a valuable term for clear and detailed communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Accuracy

Focuses on correctness and freedom from error.

Exactitude

Emphasizes strict adherence to facts or a standard.

Accuracy and detail

Highlights attention to detail in achieving accuracy.

Careful measurement

Emphasizes the meticulousness involved in obtaining precise results.

Meticulousness

Refers to extreme care and attention to detail.

Strictness

Focuses on adhering rigidly to standards or requirements.

Delicacy

Emphasizes the fineness and sensitivity involved.

Fidelity

Stresses faithfulness to an original or standard.

Sharpness

Highlights clarity and distinctness.

Definiteness

Focuses on the quality of being clearly defined or determined.

FAQs

How can I use "precision" in a sentence?

You can use "precision" to describe the quality of being exact or accurate. For example: "The surgeon performed the operation with great "precision"".

What are some synonyms for "precision"?

Some synonyms for "precision" include "accuracy", "exactness", and "meticulousness". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What is the difference between "precision" and "accuracy"?

"Precision" refers to the repeatability of a measurement, while "accuracy" refers to how close a measurement is to the true value. High "precision" doesn't always mean high accuracy, and vice versa.

In what contexts is the word "precision" most commonly used?

"Precision" is frequently used in contexts related to science, engineering, and technical fields where exactness and accuracy are critical. You can also find it in contexts related to "military operations" or "planning events".