exact

USAGE SUMMARY

"exact" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize exactness or accuracy. For example: "The measurements must be exact to ensure a successful result."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I have also heard that others are expecting the exact opposite and are hoping that I will deliver the clear and simple message here in London that the rest of Europe is not prepared to pay almost any price to keep Britain in the EU.

The Guardian

He added that it would be "sensible" for the CDC to focus its attentions on the same geographical areas as government, although exact details would be up for discussion.

The Guardian

On Saturday, within a few minutes after 2 15am, the exact time when the year changed, Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say in all state matters including the country's nuclear dossier, appeared on national TV, declaring the new year one of "harmony and solidarity with the government".

The Guardian

We cannot know yet the exact nature of his indisposition; his sudden departure suggests a serious setback.

The Guardian - Sport

As the Standard points out, the new YouGov also shows "a clear gender gap for Labour" of six points and almost the exact reverse for the Conservatives - a seven point gap favouring men.

The Guardian

Out of power in Dublin and strategically outflanked by the DUP since the St Andrews agreement two years ago, the party might be tempted back to the strategy of tension, to use the threat of violent street protest to exact fresh concessions from the British government.

The Guardian

When he gave a speech at the Pits and Perverts benefit, his exact words were: "You have worn our badge, Coal Not Dole, and you know what harassment means, as we do.

The Guardian - Film

Friends say this is what distinguishes him from his exact contemporary, Lord Cranborne, who to the untutored eye is his political twin.

The Guardian

Their exact words, down to each hesitation and repetition, have been faithfully recreated.

The Guardian - Film

The exact words that triggered the end of Brian's life, and the start of Ben's, are a secret he keeps out of respect for the dead boy's family.

The Guardian

The exact alchemy by which so much economic lead is turned into political gold will preoccupy future PhD theses and coalition biographies; but, on a day filled with as much hot air as this one, let me just point out that it goes on.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity in technical or scientific writing, use "exact" to specify precise measurements, quantities, or conditions, leaving no room for ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "exact" in casual conversation where approximations are sufficient. Overusing it can make your speech sound overly formal or pedantic. Instead, opt for words like "about" or "around" when precision isn't crucial.

Linguistic Context

Exact" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to denote precision and accuracy. Additionally, it serves as a verb, signifying the act of demanding and obtaining something, often with force or authority. Ludwig provides examples illustrating both usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exact" is a versatile term used primarily as an adjective to denote precision and accuracy, and as a verb to signify demanding and obtaining something. Its grammatical status is correct, as affirmed by Ludwig, and its usage is very common across diverse contexts. While suitable for formal and scientific writing, overuse in casual conversation should be avoided. Related phrases include "precise", "accurate", and "demand", each offering nuances in meaning. Overall, understanding the appropriate contexts for "exact" ensures clarity and effectiveness in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precise

Focuses on accuracy and detail, similar to "exact" but can sometimes imply a slightly higher degree of refinement.

accurate

Emphasizes conformity to truth or fact, closely related to "exact" in its meaning of correctness.

correct

Highlights the absence of error, overlapping with "exact" in scenarios where precision is key.

precise specifications

Specifically indicates adhering to a set of predefined standards, offering a more detailed alternative.

meticulous

Implies extreme care and attention to detail, going beyond mere accuracy to suggest thoroughness.

demand

When "exact" is used as a verb, this alternative captures the sense of requiring or claiming something forcefully.

stipulate

Emphasizes the act of specifying something as a condition or requirement, similar to exacting terms.

rigid

Indicates inflexibility and strict adherence to rules, related to "exact" in contexts demanding conformity.

faithful reproduction

Highlights the accuracy in replicating something, relevant when "exact" describes a copy or representation.

pinpoint

Refers to identifying something with great accuracy, offering an alternative when "exact" describes precision in location or time.

FAQs

How is the word "exact" typically used in a sentence?

"Exact" can be used as an adjective to describe something precise, like "the "exact measurement"" or as a verb meaning to demand, such as "to "exact revenge"".

What are some adjectives similar to "exact"?

Synonyms for "exact" include words like "precise", "accurate", and "correct". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "exact" instead of "approximate"?

Use "exact" when you need to emphasize precision and accuracy. If there's room for slight variation or estimation, "approximate" is more appropriate.

What does it mean to "exact" something from someone?

To "exact" something from someone means to demand and obtain it, often forcefully or rigorously. For example, a ruler might "exact tribute" from conquered territories.