is precisely that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is precisely that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a specific point or definition that has just been made, often in a clarifying context. Example: "The essence of the problem is precisely that we lack sufficient resources to proceed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But, of course intelligence is precisely that: intelligence.

The Guardian

It is precisely that attitude that troubles African musicians.

The New York Times - Arts

It is precisely that weakness that has motivated their nuclear and missile programs.

University of California, Berkeley

The heckler's veto is precisely that type of odious viewpoint discrimination.

The Washington Post

And I mean no disrespect by that: it is precisely that whimsical attitude that charms me.

The New York Times

But what hurts is precisely that: she has dared to create them.

The Guardian - Film

It is precisely that element of enclosed animalism I find missing here.

The Guardian

It is precisely that sort of dispute that the current Congressional bills are meant to preclude.

The New York Times

The sentiment of most L commuters is precisely that: we are simply passing through.

University of Chicago

Nevertheless, it is precisely that limit against which thinking can subject capitalism to philosophical critique.

SEP

But James is precisely that guy.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is precisely that" to clarify or emphasize a point you've just made. It adds a sense of accuracy and definiteness to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "is precisely that" excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious if used too frequently.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is precisely that" functions as a linking phrase used to emphasize a preceding statement or definition. It serves to highlight the accuracy or exactness of the information being presented. This aligns with Ludwig AI's analysis, indicating its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

25%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is precisely that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to emphasize the accuracy and definiteness of a statement. According to Ludwig AI, it's considered correct and widely applicable in various contexts. Its primary function is to clarify and reinforce key points, making it particularly suitable for formal and professional settings. While alternatives like "is exactly that" and "is specifically that" exist, "is precisely that" adds a unique emphasis on accuracy. However, it should be used judiciously in informal contexts to avoid sounding overly formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is exactly that

Emphasizes exactness but uses "exactly" instead of "precisely".

is specifically that

Highlights specificity but uses "specifically" instead of "precisely".

is essentially that

Focuses on the essential nature, differing slightly in emphasis.

is fundamentally that

Emphasizes the fundamental nature, changing the nuance.

is basically that

Highlights the basic nature, making it less formal.

is simply that

Underscores simplicity, altering the intensity of the statement.

that is exactly it

Rephrases to emphasize agreement or confirmation.

that's the precise point

Shifts the focus to highlight a key point, using a more assertive tone.

that's the crux of it

Identifies the core issue, changing the construction.

that is the heart of the matter

Emphasizes the core of the issue using a more descriptive expression.

FAQs

How can I use "is precisely that" in a sentence?

Use "is precisely that" to emphasize a definition or key point. For example, "The core of the problem "is precisely that" we don't have enough resources."

What are some alternatives to "is precisely that"?

Alternatives include "is exactly that", "is specifically that", or "is essentially that". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "is precisely that" and "is exactly that"?

While similar, "is precisely that" carries a slightly stronger sense of accuracy and meticulousness compared to "is exactly that". Both emphasize correctness, but "precisely" suggests a higher degree of accuracy.

When should I use "is precisely that" in formal writing?

Use "is precisely that" in formal writing when you need to emphasize a point with a high degree of accuracy or definiteness. It's appropriate for academic, scientific, or professional contexts where clarity and precision are paramount.