precision is key

USAGE SUMMARY

"precision is key" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are trying to emphasize the importance of accuracy and attention to detail. For example, "Precision is key when measuring ingredients for a baking recipe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Even in these races, which have no clock or accurate finish line, precision is key.

The New York Times

For baking, where precision is key, it's even tougher: if a pastry recipe calls for four regular eggs, what's the quail equivalent?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And in soccer, passing precision is key in separating great from good.

TechCrunch

Snakes are famed for their deadly strike, and precision is key to mastering this kung fu style.

BBC

With only, precision is key.

Huffington Post

As with every stage, precision is key.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Patience and precision are key.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

HIGHLY PURIFIED CRYSTALS that split light with uncanny precision are key parts of high-powered lenses, specialized optics and, potentially, computers that manipulate light instead of electricity.

Princeton University

Precision was key to demarcating the interior environment, and architects relied upon the burgeoning building products industry for research on the most advanced techniques in glazing, component assembly, solar control, sealants, air-conditioning systems, and weathering.

Columbia University

You might need multiple different types of licenses, so clarity and precision are key.

Forbes

The value of any classification or scoring system can be expressed by its reliability and validity, with replicability and precision being key issues [ 14].

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "precision is key", ensure the context clearly defines what requires precision. For instance, specify whether it's measurement, timing, or technique to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "precision is key" is a valid phrase, avoid using it repetitively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing the sentence to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precision is key" functions as an assertion, emphasizing the critical importance of accuracy and exactness within a given context. Ludwig examples show this phrase used across diverse fields, highlighting its broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "precision is key" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that underscores the importance of accuracy across various disciplines. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and applicable in many writing situations. With a strong presence in news, science, and academic writing, it conveys that meticulousness is essential for success. While alternatives such as "accuracy is paramount" and "exactness is crucial" offer slight variations in emphasis, the core message remains consistent: attention to detail matters. To maintain writing quality, avoid overuse and ensure the context clearly specifies what requires precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precision is paramount

Replaces "key" with "paramount", enhancing the emphasis on ultimate importance.

accuracy is paramount

Replaces "precision" with "accuracy" and "key" with "paramount", both emphasizing importance.

exactness is crucial

Substitutes "precision" with "exactness" and "key" with "crucial", highlighting the necessity of being precise.

correctness is crucial

Emphasizes being without error as the essential aspect.

meticulousness is essential

Replaces "precision" with "meticulousness" and "key" with "essential", underscoring thoroughness and necessity.

thoroughness is vital

Emphasizes the importance of being complete and detailed.

attention to detail is critical

Focuses on the importance of careful observation and consideration of every aspect.

accuracy holds the key

Inverts the structure, placing "accuracy" as the subject and "holds the key" as the predicate.

focus is paramount

Highlights that concentrated attention is the most important aspect.

planning is critical

Highlights that preliminary arrangement of details is the most important aspect.

FAQs

How can I use "precision is key" in a sentence?

You can use "precision is key" to emphasize the importance of accuracy and attention to detail in a particular situation. For example, "In surgery, "precision is key" to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient."

What are some alternatives to saying "precision is key"?

Alternatives to "precision is key" include "accuracy is paramount", "exactness is crucial", or "attention to detail is critical".

In what situations is "precision is key" most appropriate?

"Precision is key" is suitable in contexts where accuracy, exactness, and careful attention to detail are essential for success or avoiding errors. This can range from scientific experiments to crafting recipes.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "precision is key"?

While grammatically correct, using "precision is key" might be redundant if the context already implies the need for accuracy. Consider if rephrasing with a more specific term would provide better clarity.