as precise as a computer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as precise as a computer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare the accuracy or exactness of something to that of a computer, often in contexts discussing technology, data, or measurements. Example: "Her calculations were as precise as a computer, leaving no room for error."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science Magazine

The New York Times - Science

Database : the journal of biological databases and curation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

He guessed that no human could produce a beat as precise as a computer could, and in a 2012 study he showed that even professional musicians keep imperfect time an early beat here, a late beat there, all on the order of milliseconds.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But there was nothing as precise as a battle plan.

The New York Times

Although the genes carry a message as precise as the digital code of a computer program, the phenotype is tolerant of variation and survives with as wide a range of genetic instructions as possible.

The New York Times - Science

The queries that can be written with this interface, called the 'Structured Advanced Query Page' (SAQP), can be as precise as what can be expected from a computer programmer using expressive DB query languages like SQL.

Database : the journal of biological databases and curation

Protocol is as precise as that of a state dinner, and everyone is excruciatingly polite.

The New Yorker

Then the controls are about as precise as robot arms on an undersea sub.

TechCrunch

You can make a movement as precise as you want it to be".

The New York Times - Science

In addition to being as precise as possible, direct solicitations work because of an emotional reason.

Forbes

As a matter of fact, the science of drama can be viewed as precise as architecture itself.

Huffington Post

A black hole particle accelerator wouldn't be nearly as precise as one on Earth.

Forbes

"Radar is not as precise as GPS.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing human actions or measurements to computers, use "as precise as a computer" to highlight a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail. This emphasizes the reliability and exactness of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "as precise as a computer" in casual conversation or informal writing where a simpler comparison would suffice. Overusing it can sound overly technical or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as precise as a computer" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase of comparison, modifying a verb or adjective by illustrating the degree of precision. It emphasizes a high level of accuracy, often in technical or scientific contexts, as demonstrated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

40%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as precise as a computer" is a grammatically correct and usable comparison, though relatively rare in occurrence. As Ludwig indicates, it's employed to emphasize a high degree of accuracy, primarily in scientific, technical, and news-related contexts. While suitable for formal writing, its use should be tempered in casual settings to avoid sounding overly technical. Alternative phrases like "as accurate as a computer" or "with computer-like precision" can provide similar meaning with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as accurate as a computer

Replaces 'precise' with 'accurate', emphasizing correctness and freedom from error.

as exact as a computer

Substitutes 'precise' with 'exact', highlighting strict adherence to detail.

with computer-like precision

Changes the structure to emphasize the quality of precision resembling a computer's.

with the accuracy of a computer

Similar to the previous, but focuses on accuracy as the key attribute.

as methodical as a computer

Emphasizes the systematic and orderly nature of a process, akin to a computer's operation.

as flawlessly as a computer

Focuses on the error-free performance, mirroring a computer's ideal output.

boasting computer-grade precision

Implies a high standard of precision, comparable to that used in computer technology.

exhibiting the precision of a computer

Highlights the display of precision, drawing a parallel to a computer's capabilities.

as calculated as a computer

Focuses on the planned and deliberate nature, similar to a computer's programmed actions.

with digital accuracy

A more concise option, directly referencing the accuracy associated with digital systems.

FAQs

How can I use "as precise as a computer" in a sentence?

Use "as precise as a computer" to describe something that is exceptionally accurate or exact. For example, "Her measurements were "as precise as a computer", ensuring the success of the experiment."

What are some alternatives to "as precise as a computer"?

Alternatives include "as accurate as a computer", "with computer-like precision", or "with digital accuracy" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "as precise as a computer" in formal writing?

Yes, "as precise as a computer" is suitable for formal writing, especially in technical or scientific contexts where accuracy is paramount. However, ensure it fits the overall tone and isn't overly colloquial.

What makes something "as precise as a computer"?

Something that is ""as precise as a computer"" is characterized by a high degree of accuracy, minimal margin for error, and often involves automated or highly controlled processes to achieve that level of exactness.