a precise measurement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precise measurement" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a specific, accurate, or exact amount or value of something. Example: "The scientist used a ruler to take a precise measurement of the rock's diameter."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Use a tape measure to get a precise measurement of the wall space.

WikiHow

To have a precise measurement of the experimental noise δ in every experiment, we measured the error on the position determination of melanosomes in formaldehyde-fixed cells before and after the experiment.

Plosone

And, of course, if customers ask for a precise measurement, the stores will give them that.

The New York Times - Food

Count on the old hitters to provide a precise measurement of the line between success and failure.

The New Yorker

In Islamic civilization, he argues, the long absence of a precise measurement of time has precluded this critical synchronization.

The New York Times - Books

It may not be exactly a precise measurement, but a look at street names in Berlin might provide a clue to this.

The New York Times

The instruments available to Regen at the time, however, did not permit a precise measurement of intensity thresholds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The method, used at all levels of American football, remains virtually unchanged and unnoticed after 100 years, taking place beyond the scope of the television camera and the focus of the fans until a precise measurement is needed.

The New York Times - Sports

Thus, a precise measurement of the 87Sr/86Sr ratio in a modern volcano can be used to determine age if recycled older crust is present.

Encyclopedia Britannica

— Wilson Chandler's value is rising with every game, but he will have to wait until next summer to get a precise measurement in dollars.

The New York Times - Sports

In 1995, when Earth passed through the ring plane, the edge-on viewing geometry permitted a direct determination of the ring thickness and a precise measurement of the rate of precession of Saturn's rotational axis.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking "a precise measurement", specify the instrument or method used to ensure clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid implying "a precise measurement" when the data collection method or equipment used does not guarantee a high degree of accuracy. Acknowledge potential limitations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precise measurement" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "precise" modifies the noun "measurement". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precise measurement" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase, denoting a high degree of accuracy in determining a quantity or value. Predominantly found in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, the phrase emphasizes reliability and exactness. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and common usage. When using this phrase, consider the instruments and methods employed to substantiate the claimed precision and avoid overstating the accuracy if limitations exist. Alternatives like "an accurate reading" or "an exact calculation" can be considered based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an accurate reading

Focuses on the correctness and reliability of the measured value.

an exact calculation

Emphasizes the mathematical accuracy and precision of the determination.

a pinpoint determination

Highlights the ability to identify or establish something with great accuracy.

a meticulous assessment

Suggests a thorough and careful evaluation to ensure accuracy.

a rigorous quantification

Implies a strict and systematic process to measure or count something.

a detailed analysis

Shifts the focus to a comprehensive examination providing accurate data.

a careful evaluation

Emphasizes the diligence and attention to detail in the measurement process.

a specific assessment

Highlights the determination of a particular value with clarity.

an accurate gauge

Focuses on using a measuring instrument to obtain a correct value.

a calibrated reading

Emphasizes the reading has been adjusted or corrected to conform to a standard.

FAQs

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

You can use "a precise measurement" when describing a situation where accuracy is important. For example: "The experiment required "a precise measurement" of the chemical's volume."

What's the difference between "a precise measurement" and "an accurate estimate"?

"A precise measurement" implies a high degree of accuracy obtained through instruments or calculations, while "an accurate estimate" is an informed approximation, not necessarily exact.

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

You can use alternatives like "an accurate reading", "an exact calculation", or "a pinpoint determination" depending on the context.

Why is "a precise measurement" important in scientific research?

"A precise measurement" is vital in scientific research because it ensures reliable and reproducible results, leading to valid conclusions and discoveries.