precise as clockwork

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "precise as clockwork" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that operates with great accuracy and reliability, often in a predictable manner. Example: "The train schedule is precise as clockwork, arriving and departing exactly on time every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

With movements precise as clockwork they lifted the coffin, still draped with the Union Flag, and carrying the emblems of the Garter, and step by step bore it on their shoulders through the wide railway-van doors, placing it gently on a catafalque built inside.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

As this is Switzerland, the movement of the gears is quiet and precise, almost as clockwork as the system of trams and buses that take you anywhere you fancy in this region of art and architecture that touches three countries.

The New York Times - Travel

The journey northwest to Lake Lucerne involves three trains and a paddle steamer in a single afternoon, each one running on a schedule as precise as Swiss clockwork.

BBC

Under Swiss rules that are as precise as its clockworks, Golden Hawk can label its watches Swiss-made as long as at least 50 percent of the value of the movement comes from Switzerland.

The New York Times

Rather, in regular-as-clockwork annual speeches, Mr. Obama has simply delayed or slowed troop withdrawals.

The New York Times

The animal would win, regular as clockwork.

The New Yorker

Firstly, earthquakes don't happen as regularly as clockwork.

University of California, Berkeley

Regular as clockwork, he comes here.

The New York Times

I have these pangs every day, regular as clockwork.

The Guardian

Regular as clockwork, the Australians drubbed their rivals, winning eight straight series from 1989 to 2003.

The New York Times - Sports

Once as regular as clockwork, he now is prone to accidents.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "precise as clockwork" to emphasize the reliability and predictability of a process, event, or system. It is best suited when describing something that operates with consistent accuracy over time.

Common error

Don't use "precise as clockwork" simply to mean 'accurate'. This phrase conveys a sense of automatic, predictable accuracy over time, not just a single instance of precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precise as clockwork" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to describe something that operates with great accuracy and reliability. Ludwig AI confirms that it's usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "precise as clockwork" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression used to describe something that operates with consistent accuracy and reliability. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase serves to emphasize dependability and predictability. While alternatives like "as accurate as a Swiss watch" exist, "precise as clockwork" uniquely conveys a sense of mechanical-like precision. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it truly reflects automatic, consistent accuracy, rather than just a single instance of precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

As accurate as a Swiss watch

Uses a different object of comparison, focusing on the renowned accuracy of Swiss watches instead of clockwork.

With clockwork precision

Rearranges the words, putting emphasis on the precision itself.

Regular as clockwork

Focuses on the regularity and predictability of an event.

Like a well-oiled machine

Emphasizes the smooth and efficient operation of something.

Operating with flawless timing

Highlights the perfect timing and execution of a process.

Executed with military precision

Draws a comparison to the precision and order of military operations.

Running like clockwork

Uses a verb to describe the state of operating smoothly and on schedule.

With unwavering accuracy

Highlights the consistent and unchanging nature of the accuracy.

Following a strict schedule

Focuses on the adherence to a planned timetable.

As dependable as sunrise

Compares reliability to the predictable nature of sunrise.

FAQs

How can I use "precise as clockwork" in a sentence?

You can use "precise as clockwork" to describe something that operates with great accuracy and reliability, often in a predictable manner. For example: "The train schedule is "precise as clockwork", arriving and departing exactly on time every day."

What is a good alternative to "precise as clockwork"?

Alternatives include "as accurate as a Swiss watch" or "regular as clockwork", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more common to say "precise as clockwork" or "regular as clockwork"?

"Regular as clockwork" is more commonly used when referring to the frequency of an event. "Precise as clockwork" is better when emphasizing the accuracy and reliability of an operation.

What does it mean when something is described as "precise as clockwork"?

It means that something functions with a high degree of accuracy and predictability, much like the intricate and reliable mechanism of a clock.