a precise figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precise figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific numerical value or amount that is exact and not approximate. Example: "The budget report requires a precise figure for the total expenses incurred last quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Profit also exceeded the level a year earlier, company executives said, without giving a precise figure.

The New York Times

He doesn't have a precise figure in mind.

The New York Times - Magazine

Why can't they settle on a precise figure?

The Washington Post

Barclays said it did not have a precise figure for damages.

The New York Times

Telling us we have "lots" of email rather than a precise figure?

The Guardian - Tech

The panel struggled to get an estimate of overdiagnosis, but could not get a precise figure.

The New York Times - Health

She did not give a precise figure, but characterized it as a "multimillion dollar buy".

The New York Times

Asked for a precise figure, the Senator consulted the ceiling, which offered no clues.

The New York Times

Ms. Comstock would not give a precise figure but said: "It will need to be millions.

The New York Times

This was the result of a mistranslation; the speaker did not specify a precise figure.

The Guardian - Tech

Now, they have a put a precise figure on some of the losses.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you need to emphasize the lack of ambiguity in a numerical value, use "a precise figure" to ensure clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a precise figure" when referring to estimations or values known to be inexact. It implies a level of certainty that isn't present, like in situations where you should better use phrases like "an estimated amount" or "an approximate value".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precise figure" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It indicates a specific, exact numerical value, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precise figure" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to emphasize the accuracy and specificity of a numerical value. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's frequently found in News & Media, but also appears in Formal & Business and Science contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the value you're referring to is indeed exact, and not an estimation. Alternatives like "an exact number" or "a specific value" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exact number

Replaces "figure" with "number" emphasizing the numerical aspect but conveys a similar meaning.

a specific value

Uses "value" instead of "figure" to denote a particular quantity, measurement, or amount, while maintaining the requirement for accuracy.

an accurate estimate

Highlights the accuracy aspect, suggesting that the figure, though an estimate, is as precise as possible.

the definitive amount

Emphasizes the finality and correctness of the amount, implying that it is the most accurate and reliable figure available.

a concrete statistic

Replaces "figure" with "statistic" to emphasize that is a concrete number with the characteristic of representing data.

the exact quantity

Focuses on the accurate amount of something, stressing that quantity has been precisely determined.

a detailed calculation

It shifts the focus from a single figure to the process of obtaining it, signifying a thorough and precise computation.

a pinpoint measurement

Suggests a highly accurate measurement, emphasizing the precision involved in determining the figure.

a numerically exact value

Reinforces the numerical exactness of the value by explicitly stating it.

a fixed amount

Indicates that the amount is unchangeable and definitively set, implying precision.

FAQs

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

Use "a precise figure" when you want to emphasize the accuracy and exactness of a numerical value, for example: "The accountant provided "a precise figure" for the company's annual revenue".

What can I say instead of "a precise figure"?

You can use alternatives like "an exact number", "a specific value", or "an accurate estimate depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a precise figure"?

It's appropriate when the number is known to be exact and not an approximation. For instance, you can use it when presenting the final results of a detailed audit, in contrast to preliminary estimates.

What's the difference between "a precise figure" and "an estimated amount"?

"A precise figure" implies a high degree of accuracy and certainty, while "an estimated amount" suggests an approximate value that may not be exact and could be subject to revision.