an exact figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an exact figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific numerical value or amount that is precise and not an approximation. Example: "The accountant provided an exact figure for the total expenses incurred last month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It did not give an exact figure.

The New York Times

The state of the bodies made establishing an exact figure difficult.

The Guardian

That's not an exact figure: none, at the national level, seems to exist.

The Guardian

There will never be an exact figure of the victims of the catastrophe.

The Guardian

The authority could not give an exact figure, as it would not disclose numbers below five.

The Guardian

Other studies have tried to put an exact figure on the cost of the epidemic.

The New Yorker

"We have well exceeded the five million figure already," Mr. Ernest said, who declined to provide an exact figure.

The New York Times

I don't have an exact figure, but there are certainly a meaningful number of companies that are doing this.

The New York Times

Having an exact figure in mind is a good idea, though.

The Guardian - Money

(Though I'd love to know how such an exact figure was ever gained).

The New York Times - Books

"Our interest has not been to arrive at an exact figure".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an exact figure", ensure that the context clearly indicates why precision is important. This adds weight to the statement and avoids misinterpretation. For example, in financial reports, stating "an exact figure" for revenue lends credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "an exact figure" when the value is derived from estimates or has a margin of error. It is misleading to label an approximate value as "an exact figure" as it undermines trust in the information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an exact figure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI confirms that it usually refers to a specific, precise numerical value. It indicates a level of accuracy and detail.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an exact figure" is a noun phrase used to denote a specific, precise numerical value, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to provide clarity and eliminate ambiguity in contexts where accuracy is paramount. While suitable for various registers, it is most commonly found in news and media, professional, and formal settings. When employing this phrase, ensure that the value is indeed precise and not an approximation. This enhances credibility and avoids misleading interpretations. Numerous examples available through Ludwig illustrate the phrase's broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a precise number

Emphasizes numerical accuracy over a general estimation.

a specific amount

Highlights a particular quantity, removing ambiguity.

a definitive quantity

Stresses the finality and certainty of the amount.

a precise value

Focuses on the accurate numerical representation.

an accurate measurement

Highlights the correctness of the measured value.

a confirmed total

Indicates that the figure has been verified.

a calculated sum

Emphasizes that the figure was derived through computation.

the actual amount

Distinguishes the real quantity from estimates.

the precise tally

Emphasizes the act of counting to reach the accurate number.

an explicit number

Highlights clarity and lack of ambiguity in the given amount.

FAQs

How can I use "an exact figure" in a sentence?

You can use "an exact figure" when referring to a precise numerical value or amount that is not an approximation. For instance, "The audit revealed "an exact figure" of $1,256,789 in unaccounted expenses".

What's a good alternative to "an exact figure"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a precise number", "a specific amount", or "a definitive quantity".

Is it always necessary to provide "an exact figure"?

No, providing "an exact figure" isn't always necessary or possible. Sometimes, an estimate or range is sufficient, particularly when precise data is unavailable or unnecessary for the purpose at hand.

When is it inappropriate to use "an exact figure"?

It's inappropriate to use "an exact figure" when the value is an estimate, a projection, or subject to change. Doing so can be misleading. Instead, use qualifying language, such as "approximately" or "estimated at".