lacking precision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lacking precision" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is not clear, accurate, or specific enough in detail or measurement. Example: "The report was criticized for lacking precision in its data analysis, leading to questionable conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

The phrase "lacking precision" is most commonly found in scientific and news contexts, where accuracy and detail are crucial. It also appears in more formal writing where specific details are important.

It is often used to describe measurements, analyses, or arguments that are not sufficiently detailed or accurate.

The phrase can be applied to a variety of subjects, from surgical procedures to sports commentary.

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The surgeon's assistant closed the abdomen with coarse sutures lacking precision or planning.

The Guardian

Derby County's football may be lacking precision at the moment but there is nothing wrong with their timing.

The Guardian - Sport

Lacking precision timekeeping equipment, I resorted to the digital clock on my car radio, which displays hours and minutes, not seconds.

The New York Times

However, interpretation and labelling of empirical factors is a subjective process, lacking precision or conceptual basis.

BMC Ophthalmology

However, the interpretation and labelling of empirical factors is a subjective process lacking precision or conceptual basis [ 9].

BMC Ophthalmology

Instruments like the FACT-G, relatively brief, multidimensional questionnaires, are designed primarily for group comparisons, lacking precision needed for individual diagnosis.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The figures lack precision.

The New York Times - Sports

The terminology occasionally lacks precision.

The Guardian - Books

"It was simple and lacked precision.

The New York Times

We lacked precision on our counter attacks".

Independent

Robertson looked dreamy while Emms lacked precision.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lacking precision", be specific about what lacks precision. For example, instead of just saying 'The data is lacking precision', specify 'The data is lacking precision in its time measurements'.

Common error

Avoid using "lacking precision" when simpler words like "imprecise" or "vague" would suffice. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lacking precision" functions primarily as an adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or noun phrase, describing a quality of something that is not exact or detailed. Ludwig AI confirms its use in describing deficiencies in accuracy.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lacking precision" is a useful tool for describing something that is not sufficiently detailed or accurate, as Ludwig AI states. It functions as an adjective phrase and is most commonly found in scientific and news contexts. While grammatically correct and widely understood, simpler alternatives like "imprecise" or "vague" may be more appropriate in informal writing. When using "lacking precision", ensure you specify what exactly lacks precision to avoid ambiguity. Remember that the phrase's strength lies in its ability to highlight specific deficiencies in accuracy and detail.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Imprecise

A more concise adjective to describe something not exact.

Inaccurate

Focuses on the incorrectness of information rather than the level of detail.

Vague

Highlights a lack of clarity and definition.

Indefinite

Suggests a lack of specific boundaries or limits.

Unspecified

Emphasizes that something has not been explicitly stated or detailed.

Loose

Implies a lack of strictness or rigor.

Approximate

Indicates an estimate rather than an exact measurement.

Rough

Suggests a lack of refinement and attention to detail.

General

Highlights the absence of specific or particular details.

Nebulous

Emphasizes obscurity and a lack of clear form.

FAQs

How can I use "lacking precision" in a sentence?

You can use "lacking precision" to describe something that is not clear, accurate, or specific enough in detail or measurement. For example: "The surgeon's assistant closed the abdomen with coarse sutures "lacking precision" or planning."

What are some alternatives to "lacking precision"?

Some alternatives to "lacking precision" include "imprecise", "inaccurate", and "vague". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "lack precision" or "lacking precision"?

Both "lack precision" and "lacking precision" are grammatically correct, but they function differently in a sentence. "Lack precision" is a verb phrase (e.g., 'These methods lack precision'), while "lacking precision" is a participial phrase that modifies a noun (e.g., 'Methods "lacking precision" may not be reliable').

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "lacking precision"?

The phrase "lacking precision" is appropriate in formal and technical contexts where accuracy and detail are important. This includes scientific reports, legal documents, and detailed analyses. It may be less suitable for informal writing, where simpler words might be preferred.