in a precise sense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a precise sense" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that you are speaking or writing in the strictest terms. For example, "She was a great leader, in a precise sense."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

In particular, the equilibria we analyze are "conditionally" dominant strategy in a precise sense.

Yale University

In this paper, we revisit this problem using a different approach, and provide a result that is simpler, more intuitive, and, in a precise sense, more general.

Cornell University

Conversely, Talagrand's inequality implies a logarithmic Sobolev inequality if the density of the measure is approximately log-concave, in a precise sense.

Journal of Functional Analysis

In particular, we show that in a precise sense agents in the structures considered by Levesque and Lakemeyer are perfect reasoners in NPL.

Artificial Intelligence

When economists talk about efficiency, they use the word in a precise sense quite different from what most people mean by it.

The Economist

This includes the averaging of Hamiltonian as well as dissipative microscopic dynamics whose 'slow' variables, defined in a precise sense, can often display mixed slow-fast response as in relaxation oscillations, and dependence on initial conditions of the fast variables.

Journal of Computational Physics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

A Theorem is proven that gives a precise sense in which strategyproofness in the large is not a very restrictive property.

Harvard University

With these characterizations in hand Zwart and Franssen go on to show that Arrow's famous theorem in social choice theory can be applied to obtain a surprising general result about truthlikeness orderings: that there is a precise sense in which there can be no compromise between the content and likeness approaches, that any apparent compromise effectively capitulates to one paradigm or the other.

SEP

When Carnap tries to specify a precise sense in which arithmetic is a "consequence" of a conventionally stipulated linguistic framework, the first incompleteness theorem forces him to employ a meta-language containing mathematics that goes beyond arithmetic (so as to ensure the bivalence of arithmetical truth).

SEP

Even though it is improper to talk about the principal type of a typable term if a and b are distinct type variables, then a → a and b → b are distinct principal types of I there is still a precise sense in which there is one and only one principal type of a typable term: a → a and b → b are simply (uniform) substitution instances of each other.

SEP

No doubt the intensity of his early religious training contributed to his capacity to let perpetual light shine upon the quotidian, yet this religious poet was inhabited by another who was, in a very precise sense, a secular Milosz, one afflicted by the atrociousness of the saeculum he was fated to live through.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a precise sense" to signal that you are using a term or concept with a specific, well-defined meaning, especially when that meaning might differ from common usage.

Common error

Avoid using "in a precise sense" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "specifically" or "exactly" in those contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a precise sense" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the exact meaning or interpretation being applied. It serves to qualify a statement, indicating that a term or concept is being used with a specific, well-defined meaning. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

45%

Academia

30%

News & Media

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a precise sense" is a valuable tool for writers who need to clarify their meaning and avoid ambiguity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and signals that a term or concept is being used with a specific, often technical, definition. While prevalent in scientific and academic contexts, its formality may make it unsuitable for casual communication. When considering alternatives, "strictly speaking" or "with precision" often provide suitable substitutes. Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring it aligns with the overall tone and register of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with precision

A more concise adverbial phrase emphasizing accuracy.

strictly speaking

Emphasizes adherence to a strict interpretation or definition.

with exactitude

Replaces the prepositional phrase with a single adverb, intensifying the focus on accuracy.

in explicit terms

Emphasizes clarity and directness rather than strict accuracy.

accurately defined

Focuses on the definition having a high level of accuracy.

to be exact

A more direct way of highlighting precision, often used to correct or clarify a statement.

in a well-defined manner

Highlights that the action or concept is clearly and unambiguously defined.

specifically speaking

Highlights the specificity of the statement being made.

by definition

Implies the statement is true based solely on the established definition.

in technical terms

Indicates that the statement is being made using technical or specialized language.

FAQs

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

Use "in a precise sense" to indicate you're using a term with a specific, often technical, meaning. For example, "Efficiency, "in a precise sense", differs from what most people mean by it."

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

Alternatives include "strictly speaking", "with precision", or "in explicit terms", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "in a precise sense" or "in a strict sense"?

Both are correct, but "in a strict sense" emphasizes adherence to a rigid definition, while "in a precise sense" focuses on accuracy and clarity. Choose based on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "in a precise sense"?

It is appropriate in formal writing, academic papers, or technical discussions where it is important to clarify that a term is being used with a specific, well-defined meaning. Avoid it in informal contexts where simpler alternatives would suffice.