wanting in precision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wanting in precision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks accuracy or clarity in detail. Example: "The report was wanting in precision, leading to misunderstandings about the project's objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Apart from the local Code, each sufficiently stated a cause of action in the nature of ejectment, save as some allegations were wanting in precision and it was left uncertain whether the defendant was in possession.

Cornell University

Nor can the question be solved by resort to the established canons of construction that enable a court to look through awkward or clumsy expression, or language wanting in precision, to the intent of the Legislature.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

If you want precision in predictions, don't ask public polls to go beyond what they can reasonably do.

Huffington Post

unless, which is probable, there is some ellipsis, or want of precision in the language, and it should run thus:- "Those that are convicted of such offences as belong to the cognisance of the Areopagites, Ephetae, or the Prytanes, when this law was made," shall remain still in disgrace, whilst others are restored; of this the reader must judge.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The new E-Rep overlord, Mayor Pottinger, is smartly turned out, conniving, condescending and very smart: He's basically everything you'd want in a capable villain, and James Murray plays him with precision and élan.

Huffington Post

"The fellow who thinks his world is too complicated and chaotic may want order and precision in his home," he said, "a place for everything down to where he puts the toothpaste.

The New York Times

If the requester wants "high" precision but the policy only allows "low", Jano returns the location with the allowed precision.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

Stanton says the project helped her realize she wanted more of a role in precision medicine, according to her Medium post announcing the new role today.

TechCrunch

"I wanted precision," he said.

The Guardian - Books

But census data users want precision.

The New York Times

Others -- especially on major holidays -- want precision.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "wanting in precision", ensure the context clearly indicates what specifically lacks precision. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "wanting in precision" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "imprecise" or "vague" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wanting in precision" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a deficiency in accuracy or exactness. It describes something that lacks the required level of detail. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Academia

66%

News & Media

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wanting in precision" signifies a lack of accuracy or detail and is primarily used in formal contexts. While grammatically correct, as noted by Ludwig, it's a less common expression compared to alternatives like "lacking precision". It functions as an adjectival phrase to highlight deficiencies in accuracy within academic, legal, or other formal writings. When using this phrase, ensuring that the context clearly identifies what lacks precision enhances its effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Lacking precision

Focuses on the absence of exactness or accuracy.

Deficient in accuracy

Highlights the inadequacy of correctness or exactness.

Imprecise

A simpler, one-word adjective conveying a lack of precision.

Inaccurate

Emphasizes a departure from what is correct or true.

Lacking in detail

Points out the absence of specific or minute particulars.

Vague

Suggests a lack of clarity or definiteness.

Ambiguous

Indicates uncertainty or multiple possible interpretations.

Not detailed enough

A more explicit way of saying that something lacks sufficient detail.

Short on specifics

Highlights the absence of particular or definite information.

Without exactness

Directly states the absence of accuracy or precision.

FAQs

What does "wanting in precision" mean?

The phrase "wanting in precision" means lacking accuracy, exactness, or detail. It describes something that is not precise or is deficient in accuracy.

What can I say instead of "wanting in precision"?

You can use alternatives like "lacking precision", "deficient in accuracy", or "imprecise" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "wanting in precision"?

Yes, "wanting in precision" is grammatically correct, although it is less common in contemporary usage than alternatives like "lacking precision".

In what contexts is "wanting in precision" typically used?

"Wanting in precision" is typically found in formal writing, legal documents, or academic texts where a high degree of specificity is required. It's less common in everyday conversation.