uncomfortably precise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "uncomfortably precise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is overly exact or detailed in a way that causes discomfort or unease. Example: "The report was uncomfortably precise, leaving no room for interpretation or personal opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

You were also brought uncomfortably close to a work in Dmitri Tcherniakov's cool, precise production of "Simon Boccanegra".

The New York Times - Arts

Uncomfortably drier.

The New York Times

Uncomfortably close.

The New York Times

FAUCI (smiling uncomfortably): Well.

The New Yorker

We lingered uncomfortably.

The New York Times

The audience laughed uncomfortably.

The New York Times

Progress comes slowly and uncomfortably.

University of Pennsylvania

That is uncomfortably tight".

Independent

Uncomfortably, at times.

Independent

I shift uncomfortably.

The New Yorker

Uncomfortably, they do.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "uncomfortably precise" when you want to convey a sense of unease or discomfort stemming from something being excessively accurate or detailed. This can be particularly effective in describing situations where such precision feels intrusive or inappropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "uncomfortably precise" simply as a more dramatic way of saying "precise". Ensure that the discomfort aspect is genuinely relevant to the context. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "uncomfortably precise" functions as an adverbial modifier of an adjective. It intensifies the adjective "precise" while adding a layer of subjective evaluation, indicating that the precision is causing some form of discomfort or unease. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a valid usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "uncomfortably precise" is a grammatically sound and semantically rich expression used to describe situations where a high level of accuracy or detail causes discomfort or unease. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as an adverbial modifier, adding a subjective layer to the adjective "precise". While relatively rare in overall usage, the phrase appears in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. When using this phrase, ensure that the element of discomfort is genuinely relevant and avoid overusing it simply for emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disturbingly accurate

This alternative emphasizes the unsettling nature of the accuracy.

eerily exact

This phrase suggests a strange or mysterious quality to the exactness.

unsettlingly accurate

This highlights the anxiety or discomfort caused by the accuracy.

disconcertingly precise

Focuses on the confusion or disturbance caused by the precision.

unpleasantly accurate

Emphasizes the negative feeling associated with the accuracy.

alarmingly accurate

This suggests that the accuracy is a cause for concern or alarm.

excessively detailed

This focuses on the overabundance of detail.

painstakingly accurate

This highlights the effort taken to achieve the accuracy.

overly meticulous

Focuses on the excessive attention to detail.

uncomfortably thorough

This implies the comprehensiveness is causing the discomfort.

FAQs

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

You can use "uncomfortably precise" to describe data, descriptions, or even social interactions that feel too accurate or detailed, creating a sense of unease. For example: "The report was "uncomfortably precise" in its depiction of the company's financial troubles."

What are some alternatives to "uncomfortably precise"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "disturbingly accurate", "eerily exact", or "unsettlingly accurate". Each of these carries a slightly different nuance.

When is it appropriate to use "uncomfortably precise"?

It's appropriate when the level of detail or accuracy is not only high but also creates a sense of discomfort, unease, or even intrusion. It implies that the precision is somehow unwelcome or inappropriate for the situation.

What's the difference between "uncomfortably precise" and "very precise"?

"Very precise" simply emphasizes the high degree of accuracy. "Uncomfortably precise" adds the element of discomfort or unease. The latter suggests that the precision is causing some form of emotional or psychological distress, implying a negative reaction to such exactness.