precise figure

USAGE SUMMARY

"precise figure" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to refer to an exact number or amount. For example, "The precise figure of the unemployment rate is 4.0%."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

No precise figure was given.

The Economist

He doesn't have a precise figure in mind.

The New York Times - Magazine

The precise figure was actually 3.07%, according to Eurostat (AMECO).

The Guardian

(Daulerio doesn't know how that precise figure was reached).

The New Yorker

(The precise figure won't be released until the autumn).

The Guardian - Music

"I don't what the precise figure is," he said.

The New York Times

A hundred days of spotlight have shown Corbyn to be a thoughtful, precise figure.

The Guardian - Opinion

Barclays said it did not have a precise figure for damages.

The New York Times

Telling us we have "lots" of email rather than a precise figure?

The Guardian - Tech

The panel struggled to get an estimate of overdiagnosis, but could not get a precise figure.

The New York Times - Health

She did not give a precise figure, but characterized it as a "multimillion dollar buy".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing statistics or research findings, use "precise figure" to convey accuracy and reliability. For example, use it when presenting the results of a controlled experiment or a detailed financial report.

Common error

Avoid using "precise figure" in casual conversations where an approximation is sufficient. In such cases, terms like "rough estimate" or "ballpark number" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precise figure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an object or complement within a sentence. It denotes a specific, exact numerical value, often in contexts where accuracy is important. Ludwig examples confirm its role in specifying quantities and measurements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "precise figure" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that conveys a specific, exact numerical value. According to Ludwig, it is commonly employed in news, business, and scientific contexts to emphasize accuracy and reliability. While it's appropriate for professional and neutral registers, it should be used judiciously in informal settings where approximation suffices. Alternatives like "exact number" or "specific amount" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precise quantity

Substitutes "figure" with "quantity" to keep the focus on a specific amount or number.

exact number

Replaces "figure" with "number", focusing on the numerical aspect.

precise measurement

Emphasizes an exact quantity gained from measurement.

particular value

Emphasizes the numerical value, especially when referring to data or measurements.

specific amount

Uses broader terms to indicate a particular quantity, but still implies accuracy.

exact measurement

Highlights a level of precision of a measurement.

definite quantity

Highlights that the quantity is fixed and known, not approximate.

accurate calculation

Shifts the focus to the process of obtaining a reliable result, rather than the figure itself.

actual total

Implies finding out the sum or amount.

specific data point

Focuses on the data element, relevant in statistical contexts.

FAQs

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

You can use "precise figure" to emphasize the exactness of a number. For example: "The report provided the "precise figure" for the company's annual revenue."

What's the difference between "precise figure" and "estimate"?

"Precise figure" refers to an exact and accurate value, while "estimate" is an approximate or rough calculation. They are contrasting concepts; one denotes certainty, and the other suggests uncertainty.

What can I say instead of "precise figure"?

You can use alternatives like "exact number", "specific amount", or "accurate calculation" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to have a "precise figure" in a report?

Not always. The need for a "precise figure" depends on the context and purpose of the report. In some cases, an estimate or range might be sufficient, while in others, accuracy is crucial.