precise answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"precise answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a response that is specific and exact. For example, "Despite my research, I could not find a precise answer to my question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I wish I could give you a precise answer.

The New Yorker

Respondents do not always provide a clear and precise answer.

Harvard University

A precise answer is most simply given by limit and shakedown analysis.

Nuclear Engineering and Design

"I'll go back and check to give you the most precise answer," he said.

The Guardian

It's not often there is a precise answer to such a question - 79p.

The Guardian - Money

Mike Bradshaw, Ormskirk, Lancs At last, a question to which a precise answer can be given!

The Guardian

When problems have a clear and precise answer, the gears of production can keep spinning.

The New York Times

And yet, ask the Finns, "Where were you on Sept. 11, 2001?" and chances are you'll get a precise answer.

The New York Times - Books

Requesting a more precise answer is like asking a table of French truckers to define a cassoulet.

The New Yorker

Wyden's argument is that Clapper knew the question was coming, so he should have had a more precise answer.

The Washington Post

A precise answer is impossible, since Whitehall does not count all of Britain's revenue and spending streams by geography.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking a "precise answer", be sure to frame your question clearly and unambiguously to avoid vague or irrelevant responses.

Common error

Avoid assuming that providing a "precise answer" is always necessary or appropriate; sometimes a general estimate or range is more useful or ethical, especially when dealing with uncertain data or sensitive topics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precise answer" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., "seek a precise answer") or as a complement. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is commonly used in various contexts to describe a response that is accurate and detailed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "precise answer" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes a specific and accurate response. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various domains, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While the phrase itself is versatile, ensuring clarity in the question and avoiding unwarranted assumptions are key to its effective use. When a specific, detailed answer is needed, framing your request carefully to elicit a "precise answer" is the best route.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exact response

Replaces "answer" with "response", emphasizing the act of replying with accuracy.

specific reply

Uses "reply" instead of "answer" and "specific" instead of "precise" to convey a targeted response.

clear cut response

Highlights the unambiguous nature of the answer, making it easily understandable.

accurate solution

Shifts the focus to a problem-solving context where the solution is not just any answer but a correct one.

unambiguous reply

Stresses the lack of ambiguity in the response, making it straightforward and easily understood.

definite resolution

Emphasizes a conclusive and clear solution or answer to a question or problem.

explicit clarification

Highlights the act of making something clearer through a detailed and unambiguous answer.

detailed explanation

Focuses on the thoroughness of the answer rather than just its accuracy.

verified fact

Changes the scope to represent an assertion that can be confirmed.

validated assertion

Focuses on the confirmed or proven nature of the statement.

FAQs

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

You can use "precise answer" to refer to a specific and accurate response to a question, such as: "The scientist sought a "precise answer" to the complex equation" or "The detective needed a "precise answer" to solve the crime".

What's the difference between "precise answer" and "exact answer"?

While "precise answer" and "exact answer" are often used interchangeably, "precise" emphasizes accuracy and detail, while "exact" emphasizes being strictly correct and conforming perfectly to a standard. They're very similar in meaning, though.

When is it important to give a "precise answer"?

It's crucial to give a "precise answer" when dealing with technical or scientific data, legal matters, or any situation where accuracy is paramount. In less formal settings, a general estimate may suffice.

Are there situations where a "precise answer" isn't possible?

Yes, in many complex or uncertain situations, a "precise answer" may not be attainable. In such cases, it's important to acknowledge the limitations and provide the most accurate estimate or range possible.