a precise account

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precise account" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a detailed and accurate description or report of an event, situation, or subject. Example: "The detective provided a precise account of the events leading up to the crime, which helped the investigation significantly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

When carried through successfully, however, it yields a "just definition"—a precise account of the troublesome idea's content.

SEP

It may thus be reasoned that, if a precise account of the intuitive usages of sets by mathematicians is given, an adequate and correct foundation will result.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The more Downing Street, or the great British press, tries to order him around, or at least make him give a precise account of what his plans are, the less inclined he will be to co-operate.

The Guardian

(Albert Goldman — that strange mixture of Theodor Adorno and Kitty Kelley — offered a precise account in his Lenny Bruce biography of how this style moved from Brooklyn to the night club, which remains one of the best things ever written about American comedy).

The New Yorker

Shostakovich would send Ustvolskaya his newest works for her approval, and over the years they played out a game of mutual musical tribute-making in a toing-and-froing of quotations based around a motive from the first, unpublished version of Shostakovich's 9th Symphony (read Rachel Jeremiah-Foulds's essay for a precise account of what happened to this melody in their music).

The Guardian - Music

But, even if a precise account is elusive, the outlines are clear: the C.I.A. has joined the Pakistani intelligence service in an aggressive campaign to eradicate local and foreign militants, who have taken refuge in some of the most inaccessible parts of the country.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

There will never be a precise accounting of how many Rwandans were massacred between April and July 1994.

The New York Times - Magazine

Hayakawa said the bid committee had not received a precise accounting of how Tan spent the money.

The Guardian - Sport

Until now, a precise accounting of how Russian officials could have executed such a complex doping operation was not publicly known.

The New York Times - Sports

His wife said that she did not have a precise accounting for how he had spent those years, but that he had not visited Afghanistan or Pakistan.

The New York Times

A precise accounting of repression in Laos is difficult to obtain because the news media are controlled by the government and communication is poor across the impoverished countryside.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a precise account" when you want to convey that the information is accurate, detailed, and carefully considered. This phrase is suitable when accuracy and thoroughness are essential.

Common error

Avoid using "a precise account" excessively, especially in informal writing. While it indicates thoroughness, overuse can make your writing sound stilted or overly formal. Consider more casual alternatives like "a clear description" or "the details" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precise account" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition, denoting a detailed and accurate description or record of something. As Ludwig AI highlights, its usage reflects a need for accuracy and clarity in the description.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precise account" is a noun phrase denoting a detailed and accurate description, frequently used in formal, scientific, and news contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While common, alternatives like "a detailed description" or "an accurate report" may be more suitable in informal settings. Remember to use it when accuracy and thoroughness are key, but avoid overuse to maintain a natural tone in your writing. The phrase's register is generally formal, aligning with its prevalence in academic and professional spheres.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a detailed description

Changes the wording to emphasize thoroughness, maintaining the focus on providing specific information.

an accurate report

Replaces "account" with "report" emphasizing factual correctness.

a thorough explanation

Shifts the emphasis to providing reasons and clarifications, suggesting a more in-depth analysis.

a meticulous record

Emphasizes the care and attention to detail in documenting something.

an exact portrayal

Focuses on representing something faithfully and without distortion.

a faithful representation

Highlights the accuracy and truthfulness of the depiction.

a clear exposition

Stresses the clarity and comprehensibility of the presentation.

a comprehensive analysis

Focuses on providing a complete and thorough examination of a topic.

a strict assessment

Highlights the rigor and stringency of an evaluation.

a definitive statement

Emphasizes the conclusive and authoritative nature of a declaration.

FAQs

How can I use "a precise account" in a sentence?

"A precise account" is used to describe something that is accurate and detailed. For instance, "The historian provided "a precise account" of the battle, detailing troop movements and key strategic decisions."

What are some alternatives to "a precise account"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a detailed description", "an accurate report", or "a thorough explanation". These phrases convey a similar meaning but may be more suitable for different writing styles or contexts.

Is it better to use "a precise account" or "a detailed account"?

Both "a precise account" and "a detailed account" can be correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "A precise account" emphasizes accuracy and exactness, while "a detailed account" emphasizes comprehensiveness and thoroughness. Choose the phrase that best reflects the aspect you want to highlight.

When is it not appropriate to use "a precise account"?

It might not be appropriate to use "a precise account" in very informal or casual settings where a more conversational tone is preferred. In such cases, simpler alternatives like "the specifics" or "the details" may be more suitable.