in a precise order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a precise order" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a sequence or arrangement that is exact and specific. Example: "The instructions must be followed in a precise order to ensure the experiment's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The architectural nibbles wrought by Makoto Suzuki of Momo Sushi Shack in Bushwick were to be paired with four sakes, and eaten in a precise order.

The New York Times

One thing remains constant, though: programming the $400 watch by pushing its four buttons in a precise order is the true test of whether you are smart enough to wear it.

The New York Times - Tech

Each piece has to be delivered and unloaded in a precise order, and the movements of the crane all plotted in advance, or else the massive objects can get stuck behind each other.

The Guardian - Arts

The Supreme Court last considered this issue in a 2001 decision, Saucier v. Katz, which required courts to consider the issue in a precise order, first deciding what the constitutional rule should be and whether the Constitution was violated, and only then deciding whether the issue had been sufficiently unclear at the time so as to make the defendant entitled to immunity.

The New York Times

Like a house being built from the inside out, brain development must proceed in a precise order.

Science Magazine

Not to mention the fact that all of these things have to happen at precise moments, in a precise order, extremely quickly, and autonomously.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Small hair-like structures called cilia can be found on the top surface of many epithelial cells and are arranged in a precise, ordered pattern.

eLife

The level of detail provided in the treatment regimens varies between the guidelines, with some specifying a precise order in which the drugs should be prescribed whereas others make more general recommendations (Table  7).

Drugs

Even observers would have found it hard to discern a precise order of events in the confusion.

The Economist

Regarding the high similarity of the core biochemical pathway of the starch biosynthesis, it might suggest that the factors dictating the variation in plant starches, in terms of characteristics and accumulation capacity in the cells, might be hidden in the granule formation step where the enzymes (also isozymes) work together in a very precise order [ 23, 27, 28].

BMC Systems Biology

In the developing retina, multipotent neural progenitors undergo unidirectional differentiation in a precise spatiotemporal order.

Neuron

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in a precise order", ensure the context clearly defines what elements are being ordered and why the specific sequence is important. For example, "The steps in the experiment must be followed "in a precise order" to achieve accurate results."

Common error

Avoid using "in a precise order" without specifying what is being ordered. For instance, saying "Things need to be done "in a precise order"" lacks clarity. Instead, provide context: "The ingredients must be added "in a precise order" to prevent the cake from collapsing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a precise order" typically functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the manner in which something is done. It indicates that the sequence or arrangement is not arbitrary but carefully determined, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a precise order" functions as an adverbial phrase to emphasize the importance of a specific sequence. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct with a neutral to formal register, commonly found in news, scientific, and wiki contexts. While not exceedingly common, its usage is consistent across reliable sources. To ensure clarity, always specify what is being ordered when using this phrase. Alternatives include "in a specific sequence" or "in an exact sequence". According to Ludwig, understanding the context is essential for appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a specific sequence

Replaces "precise" with "specific", emphasizing the particularity of the sequence.

in a fixed order

Uses "fixed" instead of "precise", highlighting the immutability of the order.

in an exact sequence

Substitutes "precise" with "exact", stressing the accuracy of the sequence.

in a defined order

Emphasizes that the order has been established or determined beforehand.

according to a strict order

Highlights the rigidity and adherence to a specific arrangement.

following a set pattern

Focuses on the patterned nature of the order, implying repetition or predictability.

in a predetermined sequence

Stresses that the sequence was decided in advance.

in a controlled arrangement

Highlights the deliberate and managed nature of the arrangement.

following a rigid protocol

Implies adherence to a strict set of rules or procedures regarding the order.

in due sequence

Emphasizes the correct or appropriate order of events.

FAQs

How can I use "in a precise order" in a sentence?

Use "in a precise order" to emphasize the importance of a specific sequence or arrangement. For example: "The instructions must be followed "in a precise order" to ensure the correct outcome."

What phrases are similar to "in a precise order"?

Alternatives include "in a specific sequence", "in an exact sequence", or "in a fixed order", all of which denote a particular arrangement.

Is it always necessary to use "in a precise order"?

No, it is not always necessary. Use it when the specific order is crucial. If the order is flexible, a phrase like "in any order" or "sequentially" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "in a precise order" and "in chronological order"?

"In chronological order" refers specifically to time-based sequencing. "In a precise order" is broader and can apply to any type of sequence, not just time. For example, you can arrange books on a shelf "in a precise order", but you experience historical events "in chronological order".