how much exactly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "how much exactly" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is usually used to ask for a specific or precise amount. Example: "Can you tell me how much exactly I owe you for the concert tickets?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

For how much, exactly?

The New Yorker

This season things are down, by how much exactly it is hard to tell.

The Economist

Mr Estrada's spokesman would not say how much exactly, but it amounted to millions of dollars.

The Economist

I can't tell you how much exactly, but the whole process is very expensive.

The Guardian - Tech

And how much, exactly, did this cost, the refitting of an entire workforce?

The Guardian - Opinion

"I don't know how much exactly but yes, he has definitely lost weight," says a spokesman when I call.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

And also causing us to wonder just exactly how much testosterone exactly is burbling back stage?

The Guardian - Music

My husband and I needed some time to know exactly how much and exactly what we would tell them.

Huffington Post

How much money exactly?

The New York Times

But how much better, exactly?

The New York Times - Health

But for how much longer, exactly?

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking precise information, use "how much exactly" to emphasize the need for accuracy and avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of asking "How much does it cost?", ask "How much exactly does it cost?" to convey that you need a specific figure.

Common error

Avoid using "how much exactly" when a general estimate is sufficient. If a precise figure isn't necessary, a less direct question like "About how much?" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "how much exactly" functions as an interrogative adverbial phrase. According to Ludwig, this phrase is generally used to request the exact number or amount of something. It emphasizes the need for a precise figure, rather than an approximation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "how much exactly" is a grammatically sound and commonly used interrogative phrase designed to elicit precise information regarding a quantity or value. As Ludwig AI confirms, it emphasizes the need for accuracy and specificity. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for various scenarios where clear and unambiguous figures are required. When clarity is key, "how much exactly" ensures you receive the detailed answer you're looking for.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what is the precise amount

Replaces 'how much' with 'what is the precise amount', emphasizing precision.

what is the exact quantity

Substitutes 'how much' with 'what is the exact quantity', focusing on a specific number.

can you specify the amount

Uses a request format to ask for a specific amount, changing the tone.

what's the specific figure

Replaces 'how much' with 'what's the specific figure', implying a numerical value.

what is the precise sum

Replaces 'amount' with 'sum', suitable for monetary contexts.

what is the accurate measure

Uses 'accurate measure' instead of 'exact amount', suitable for measurable quantities.

tell me the precise extent

Replaces 'how much' with 'the precise extent', suitable for abstract or non-numerical quantities.

to what degree precisely

Emphasizes the degree or level with precision, changing the structure.

what is the detailed amount

Focuses on getting a detailed breakdown of the amount.

what is the actual value

Replaces 'how much' with 'what is the actual value', focusing on the real worth or cost.

FAQs

How can I use "how much exactly" in a sentence?

Use "how much exactly" when you need a precise number or amount, such as "How much exactly will the repairs cost?" or "Can you tell me how much exactly I owe you"?

What phrases are similar to "how much exactly"?

Similar phrases include "what is the precise amount", "what is the exact quantity", or "can you specify the amount". These alternatives also emphasize the need for a specific or accurate figure.

Is it better to say "how much exactly" or "exactly how much"?

Both "how much exactly" and "exactly how much" are grammatically correct, but "how much exactly" is generally more common. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey, but they are largely interchangeable.

In what contexts is "how much exactly" most appropriate?

"How much exactly" is most appropriate in contexts where precise figures are needed, such as financial transactions, scientific measurements, or detailed planning. It emphasizes the importance of accuracy over approximation.