the precise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the precise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is exact or accurate in detail. Example: "The precise measurements are crucial for the success of the experiment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Finding the precise word matters.

The New York Times

The precise percentages may be misleading.

The Economist

Why does finding the precise word matter?

The New York Times

(The precise date hasn't been fixed).

The New York Times

He remembered the precise moment he changed.

The New Yorker

The precise degree of independence matters.

The Economist

(The precise amount is in dispute).

The New Yorker

The precise toll is unknown.

The New York Times

It is the precise reverse.

The Guardian

The precise death count is unknown.

The New York Times

The precise, ornamented tunes lilt and bounce.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and eliminating ambiguity, use "the precise" to emphasize the accuracy and exactness of details, measurements, or instructions. For example, specify "the precise measurements" instead of "approximate measurements" in technical documentation.

Common error

Avoid using "the precise" in casual conversation or informal writing where a less formal adjective like "exact" or "specific" might be more appropriate. Overusing it can make your language sound stilted or overly formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the precise" functions as a determiner followed by an adjective, modifying a noun to specify exactness or accuracy. Ludwig examples show it commonly precedes words like 'moment', 'percentages', 'word', emphasizing particularity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

34%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the precise" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize accuracy and specificity. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's widely used in news and scientific contexts. While versatile, avoid overuse in informal settings to maintain a natural tone. Consider alternatives like "exact" or "specific" depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Using "the precise" ensures clarity and eliminates ambiguity, which is critical in many forms of writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the exact

Replaces "precise" with a synonym emphasizing accuracy.

the accurate

Emphasizes correctness and freedom from error.

the specific

Highlights particularity and detail.

the meticulous

Implies thoroughness and attention to detail.

the definite

Suggests clarity and lack of ambiguity.

the rigorous

Emphasizes strict adherence to standards.

the detailed

Focuses on the inclusion of many particulars.

the correct

Highlights adherence to facts or standards.

the explicit

Indicates clear and direct expression.

the pinpoint

Refers to something extremely accurate or exact, as if located with a pinpoint.

FAQs

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

Use "the precise" to indicate something exact, accurate, or clearly defined. For example, "The scientist needed "the precise measurements" for the experiment to succeed."

What are some alternatives to "the precise"?

Depending on the context, you could use "the exact", "the accurate", or "the specific" as alternatives to "the precise".

Is it better to say "precise details" or "exact details"?

Both "precise details" and "exact details" are correct, but "precise" often implies a higher degree of accuracy and meticulousness than "exact". Choose the one that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

When should I use "precise" versus "accurate"?

"Precise" refers to exactness and specificity, while "accurate" refers to being correct or free from error. You might say "the accurate results" of an experiment even if they aren't "the precise values" you expected.