he is exacting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is exacting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who demands a lot from others or is very precise in their expectations. Example: "In his role as a manager, he is exacting, always expecting the highest standards from his team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

He is exacting and gallant — he bowed upon greeting a woman, and took her hand in both of his — but is not averse to mischief.

The New Yorker

This is to say, he is exacting in his references, recreating a look or a moment from the archives so precisely that, at his show on Sunday, you could easily have projected Ms. Hall's face on the models.

The New York Times

He is exacting about those few projects which actually get built — and he is willing to harangue clients who dither about approving a design or contractors who resist his choice of materials.

The New Yorker

He is exacting and precise.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

That he was exacting and temperamental in rehearsal was long known.

The New York Times - Arts

Even at top speed, he was exacting in his technique and Apollonian in his aesthetic.

The New Yorker

(Chinen) ARI HOENIG GROUP (Monday) Ari Hoenig approaches jazz drumming with manic glee, and yet he's exacting with texture and pulse.

The New York Times - Arts

And he was exacting in leading the 15-play drive to set up Vinatieri's 23-yard game-winner in overtime.

The New York Times - Sports

As if he were exacting God's wrath on the stupidity of friends, Hedley shows up with the offending rooster from next door and cuts its throat.

The New York Times

He was exacting and demanded accountability, but he was also decent and gentle, adored and respected by the family, at work and in the community.

The New York Times

He was exacting revenge because she had denied his romantic advances, according to the State Department.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "he is exacting", ensure the context clarifies what they are exacting about. Be specific about the standards or requirements they uphold to provide a clearer picture of their character or approach.

Common error

Avoid using "he is exacting" when you mean simply "he is demanding". "Exacting" implies a high degree of precision and adherence to standards, not just a general desire for more or better results.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is exacting" functions as a descriptive statement, characterizing an individual's approach as demanding and precise. It highlights their focus on maintaining high standards and attention to detail. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's considered grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "he is exacting" is a grammatically sound and usable expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts to describe someone who demands precision and high standards. While alternatives like "he is demanding" or "he is meticulous" exist, understanding the specific nuance of "exacting"—emphasizing precision and strict adherence to standards—is key to its correct application. Use this phrase when you want to clearly communicate someone's commitment to accuracy and their demanding nature in a neutral tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he is demanding

This phrase suggests that someone requires a lot from others and sets high expectations.

he is meticulous

This phrase emphasizes a concern for detail and precision.

he is rigorous

This implies that someone is strict and thorough in their approach.

he is stringent

This suggests a strict adherence to rules and procedures.

he is precise

This focuses on accuracy and exactness.

he is strict

This indicates a firm enforcement of rules and expectations.

he is fastidious

This highlights an attention to detail and a concern for cleanliness.

he is critical

This focuses on the tendency to find fault and judge harshly.

he is perfectionistic

This emphasizes the pursuit of flawlessness, often to an extreme degree.

he is scrupulous

This implies a strong moral sense and attention to detail.

FAQs

How can I use "he is exacting" in a sentence?

You can use "he is exacting" to describe someone who demands a lot of precision or adherence to a specific standard. For example: "In his role as editor, "he is exacting", ensuring every detail is correct."

What can I say instead of "he is exacting"?

Alternatives include "he is demanding", "he is meticulous", or "he is rigorous", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when someone is described as "exacting"?

To be "exacting" means demanding accuracy and precision, and requiring adherence to high standards. It suggests someone is meticulous and pays close attention to detail.

Is it better to be "exacting" or "flexible" in a leadership role?

Neither approach is inherently superior; the ideal style depends on the context. Being "exacting" may be beneficial when precision and consistency are crucial, while flexibility is more valuable in dynamic or unpredictable situations.