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Exact Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽฏ
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exact

[ษชษกหˆzรฆkt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

description

Correct in every detail; without any mistakes.

Synonyms

accurate, correct, meticulous, precise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exact

Used when something needs to be perfectly matched or specified without any deviation.

  • The blueprint gives the exact measurements for the building
  • He gave the exact amount needed
accurate

Refers to something that is free from errors and very close to the truth or intended target.

  • The weather forecast was accurate for once
  • Make sure your calculations are accurate
precise

Emphasizes exactness and clear definition, often when describing measurements, instructions, or descriptions.

  • The instructions need to be precise
  • The recipe calls for a precise amount of flour
correct

Implies that something conforms to a particular standard, rules, or facts, often used in response to answers, facts, or statements.

  • Please check if my answer is correct
  • You must use the correct procedure
meticulous

Describes someone who pays great attention to even the smallest details, often suggesting carefulness and thoroughness.

  • She is known for her meticulous work on the project
  • The artist was meticulous in his detailing

Examples of usage

  • He gave an exact account of what had happened.
  • The instructions must be followed with exact precision.
  • She has an exact memory for detail.
Context #2 | Verb

command

To demand and obtain by authority or by legal right.

Synonyms

command, demand, require.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exact

Use when requiring something specific or precise, often with an implication of strictness or meticulousness.

  • The teacher exacts a high standard from her students
  • The law exacts strict penalties for this crime
require

Use when something is necessary or essential, often in a formal or official capacity.

  • The job requires a bachelor's degree
  • The terms of the agreement require both parties to sign
demand

Use when insisting on something with a firm or forceful manner, often implying urgency or necessity.

  • The customer demanded a refund
  • She demanded to speak to the manager
command

Use when giving an authoritative order or directive, often in military or official settings.

  • The general commands his troops to advance
  • The officer commanded them to stop

Examples of usage

  • The police can exact a heavy penalty for such crimes.
  • The landlord can exact rent from the tenants.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, an exact solution is one that is accurate and has no approximations, unlike an estimated or rounded answer.
  • Exact quantities are crucial for solving equations and to work with formulas accurately.
  • The concept of exactness is foundational in fields like algebra and geometry, where precision determines the correctness of proofs.

Science

  • In scientific experiments, exact measurements are vital for deriving reliable results and conclusions.
  • The precision and exactness of data significantly influence the validity of research findings.
  • Technological advancements have improved the exactness of tools, enabling scientists to conduct more precise measurements than ever before.

Language and Communication

  • In communication, being exact helps to avoid misunderstandings, especially in instructions and requests.
  • Exact phrases and definitions can shape the clarity of legal documents, where any ambiguity can lead to disputes.
  • Linguists often study how exactness in language varies across cultures, showing how different societies value precision differently.

Cultural References

  • In popular culture, characters who are precise or exact often represent orderliness and control, contrasting with more chaotic characters.
  • Songs and films sometimes use the word to convey themes of clarity vs. ambiguity in relationships and understanding.
  • Exactness is a recurring theme in various art forms that depict the struggle for accuracy in self-expression and communication.

Origin of 'exact'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'exact' comes from the Latin 'exactus', which means 'driven out or finished'.
  • It originally referred to being 'carefully calculated' in the context of measurements and definitions.
  • The use of 'exact' in English dates back to the late 14th century, showcasing its longstanding importance in precision.

The word 'exact' comes from the Latin word 'exactus', which means 'precise' or 'accurate'. It has been used in English since the 16th century. Over time, 'exact' has maintained its meaning of being correct in every detail and without any mistakes. The verb form of 'exact' also originated from Latin, where it means 'to demand or obtain by legal authority'.

See also: exacting, exaction, exactitude, exactness, inexact, inexactitude.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,311, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.