a precise knowledge of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a precise knowledge of" is a grammatically correct phrase and it is commonly used in written English.
You can use "a precise knowledge of" to describe someone's understanding of a specific topic or subject. It emphasizes that their understanding is accurate and detailed. Example: "She has a precise knowledge of European history, having studied it for years."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If detectors are to perform as designed a precise knowledge of the location of the different elements, with precision similar to the intrinsic detector resolution, is required.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

Establishing structure properties relationships for an associative polymer requires a precise knowledge of its structure.

Polymer

Few people have a precise knowledge of the size or scope of the N.S.A.'s domestic-surveillance powers.

The New Yorker

Many daylighting applications require a precise knowledge of the directional transmission features of advanced fenestration materials.

Energy and Buildings

At the same time, a precise knowledge of long-term geomagnetic field behavior has broad implications in addressing geologic problems.

Columbia University

Some officials have suggested that the efforts are linked and that he or his sons left power with a precise knowledge of Iraq's weapons program.

The New York Times

Each night, they observed when crowds emerged after the final curtain, developing a precise knowledge of the duration, if not the content, of works in the repertory.

The New Yorker

Our simulations therefore emphasize the importance of a precise knowledge of the memristor dynamics, and therefore of its accurate description on the basis of a physical model.

Nature

However, industry needs a precise knowledge of the maximum orientation and position output errors at a given nominal configuration.

Mechanism and Machine Theory

A precise knowledge of gas-holdup distribution and energy dissipation is essential for designing gas liquid contactors.

Chemical Engineering Science

In fact, it is still used today - a precise knowledge of the positions of stars helps satellites orient themselves in space.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a precise knowledge of", ensure that the context provides evidence or examples to support the claim of precision. Be specific about what constitutes this precise knowledge.

Common error

Avoid using "a precise knowledge of" when the understanding is actually incomplete or based on estimates. Overstating precision can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precise knowledge of" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. Ludwig shows that it indicates a high degree of accuracy and detail in understanding something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

13%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a precise knowledge of" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase that signifies a detailed and accurate understanding. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is frequently used in scientific, academic and news contexts to emphasize the importance of having accurate information. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context supports the claim of precision and avoid overstating the level of understanding. Alternatives such as "a thorough understanding of" or "an accurate grasp of" can be used to add nuance. Key takeaways include the importance of context, and appropriateness for formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comprehensive knowledge of

Highlights the breadth and scope of one's understanding.

a thorough understanding of

Emphasizes completeness and depth in understanding.

an accurate grasp of

Highlights the correctness and precision of one's understanding.

a detailed comprehension of

Focuses on the level of detail in one's understanding.

a complete mastery of

Suggests a high level of skill and control over the subject.

an expert awareness of

Highlights a specialized and informed understanding.

a strong command of

Implies a powerful and confident understanding.

a deep insight into

Focuses on intuitive and profound understanding.

a refined perception of

Suggests a sophisticated and nuanced understanding.

an exact acquaintance with

Stresses the accuracy and familiarity with the subject matter.

FAQs

How can I use "a precise knowledge of" in a sentence?

You can use "a precise knowledge of" to indicate that someone has a very accurate and detailed understanding of a particular subject. For example, "The engineer required "a precise knowledge of" thermodynamics to design the engine efficiently."

What are some alternatives to "a precise knowledge of"?

Alternatives include "a thorough understanding of", "a detailed comprehension of", or "an accurate grasp of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "precise knowledge about" or "precise knowledge of"?

"Precise knowledge of" is generally preferred and more idiomatic. While "precise knowledge about" isn't incorrect, "precise knowledge of" is more commonly used in formal writing.

How does "a precise knowledge of" differ from "a general understanding of"?

"A precise knowledge of" implies a deep, detailed, and accurate understanding, whereas "a general understanding of" suggests a basic, less detailed comprehension. For example, having "a general understanding of" history might mean knowing key events, while having ""a precise knowledge of"" history might involve knowing specific dates, causes, and effects.