it was exactly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was exactly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize precision or accuracy in a statement or description. Example: "It was exactly what I had been looking for all along."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It was exactly enough.

The New York Times - Food

It was exactly the same.

The New York Times

It was exactly the opposite.

The New Yorker

It was exactly like that".

The New Yorker

It was exactly five in the afternoon.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was exactly 9 29 a.m.

The New York Times

It was exactly where I belonged".

The New York Times - Books

"It was exactly like a trial.

Independent

It was exactly what he wanted.

The New York Times

But it was exactly what we wanted".

Independent

It was exactly that interesting.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing measurements or times, "it was exactly" helps provide clarity and eliminates ambiguity, enhancing the factual nature of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it was exactly" in contexts where subjectivity is implied. This phrase is best suited for objective facts or measurements, not personal opinions or feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was exactly" functions as an emphatic descriptor, highlighting the accuracy or precision of a statement. According to Ludwig, this phrase is frequently used to emphasize a specific detail or condition, ensuring clarity and certainty. For example, "it was exactly what he wanted."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was exactly" is a versatile and commonly used expression for emphasizing precision and accuracy. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use, particularly in news and media contexts. While versatile, it is best reserved for objective statements rather than subjective opinions. Related phrases such as ""it was precisely"" or ""it was just"" offer similar emphasis with slight variations in tone. By understanding its appropriate usage, writers can effectively convey clarity and certainty in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was precisely

This alternative emphasizes exactness and accuracy, similar to the original phrase but with a slightly more formal tone.

it was just

This alternative conveys that something is exactly as required or expected, often implying a perfect fit or timing.

it was identically

This phrase underscores that something is exactly the same as something else, emphasizing the lack of any difference.

it was the spitting image of

This idiom suggests a very close resemblance, often used for people but applicable to objects too.

it was a carbon copy of

This phrase implies an exact reproduction or duplicate, highlighting the absence of any alteration.

it was the perfect

This alternative emphasizes that something met the required criteria ideally, implying suitability and satisfaction.

it was completely

This alternative emphasizes the thoroughness and completeness of a particular match or fulfillment.

it aligned perfectly with

This phrase emphasizes that something corresponded to the requirements or expectations flawlessly.

it mirrored

This alternative highlights that something reflected or corresponded to something else with a high degree of accuracy.

it corresponded precisely to

This alternative underscores that something matched another item or standard meticulously and accurately.

FAQs

How can I use "it was exactly" in a sentence?

You can use "it was exactly" to emphasize the precision or accuracy of a statement. For example, "It was exactly what I needed after a long day" or "It was exactly five o'clock when the meeting started".

What phrases are similar to "it was exactly"?

Similar phrases include "it was precisely", "it was just", or "it was identically". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "it was exactly"?

"It was exactly" is appropriate when you want to highlight the accuracy or precision of a detail. It's suitable for describing measurements, times, or situations where being exact is important.

Is "it was exactly" formal or informal?

"It was exactly" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The surrounding language and situation will influence the overall formality.