exact figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exact figure" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a precise numerical value or amount, rather than an estimate or approximation. Example: "The accountant requested an exact figure for the company's profits last quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

(Nobody knows the exact figure).

The New Yorker

The exact figure is unknowable.

The Guardian - Film

The exact figure was academic.

The New York Times

The exact figure is a private matter".

Independent

(the exact figure depends on the temperature).

The New York Times - Science

(The exact figure is still being negotiated).

The New York Times

It did not give an exact figure.

The New York Times

This season alone, the exact figure could be disputed.

The Guardian - Sport

"I don't know the exact figure," he told me.

The New Yorker

Nobody knows the exact figure, since the government massages it.

The Economist

The exact figure the UK should take is subject to overall numbers.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When requesting data, specify that you need the "exact figure" to avoid receiving rounded estimates or approximations. This ensures clarity and precision in communication.

Common error

Avoid using "exact figure" when an approximation or estimate is sufficient or when the true value is inherently uncertain. Using the phrase implies a level of precision that may not exist or be necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exact figure" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves to specify that a particular numerical value should be precise and not an approximation or estimate. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples where "exact figure" is used to request or emphasize precise data.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exact figure" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to emphasize the need for a precise numerical value rather than an approximation. Ludwig AI's analysis, backed by numerous examples from reputable news and media sources, confirms its widespread use. When writing, it's crucial to use "exact figure" only when precision is required and avoid it when an estimate is sufficient. Alternatives like "precise number", "specific amount", and "accurate value" can be used depending on the specific context. Its neutral to professional register makes it suitable for various formal communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Precise number

Replaces "figure" with "number", emphasizing numerical precision.

Specific amount

Substitutes "figure" with "amount", highlighting a particular quantity.

Accurate value

Replaces "exact" with "accurate" and "figure" with "value", stressing correctness.

Definitive quantity

Uses "definitive" for emphasis, implying a final and unquestionable amount.

Actual total

Focuses on the true or realized sum.

Correct calculation

Highlights the process of arriving at a precise figure.

Verified statistic

Emphasizes confirmation and statistical nature.

Precise measurement

Implies a measurement taken with accuracy.

Pinpoint number

Uses "pinpoint" to emphasize the accuracy and specificity of the number.

Absolute figure

Emphasizes that the figure is complete and without any uncertainty.

FAQs

How to use "exact figure" in a sentence?

You can use "exact figure" to ask for or provide a precise number. For example, "Can you provide the "exact figure" for the project's expenses?"

What can I say instead of "exact figure"?

Alternatives to "exact figure" include "precise number", "specific amount", or "accurate value", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "exact figure"?

Use "exact figure" when you need a precise value and approximations are not acceptable. This is common in financial reports, scientific data, and legal documents.

What's the difference between "estimate" and "exact figure"?

An estimate is an approximate calculation, while an "exact figure" is a precise value. Use "estimate" when precision isn't possible or required, and "exact figure" when accuracy is crucial.