Imprecision Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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imprecision
[ษชmpriหsษชสษn ]
Definitions
lack of accuracy
Imprecision refers to the lack of accuracy or exactness in something. It is the quality of being imprecise or not well-defined.
Synonyms
ambiguity, inaccuracy, uncertainty, vagueness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| imprecision |
Use when describing something that lacks exactness or detail. Suitable for technical, scientific, or analytic discussions.
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| inaccuracy |
Best used when discussing errors or mistakes in information, figures, or measurements. Common in academic, scientific, and technical contexts.
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| vagueness |
Related to something that is not clearly expressed or is too general. Usually used in everyday language, literature, and sometimes in politics.
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| uncertainty |
Ideal for situations where there is a lack of certainty or confidence about outcomes or facts. Often applied in business, science, and weather forecasting.
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| ambiguity |
Relevant when talking about something that can be understood in multiple ways or is unclear. Common in literary, legal, and everyday contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The imprecision of his measurements led to inaccurate results.
- She was frustrated by the imprecision of the instructions.
- We need to eliminate imprecision in our data analysis for better outcomes.
inexactitude
Imprecision can also refer to inexactitude or lack of precision in something, such as measurements or calculations.
Synonyms
approximation, imperfection, inexactness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| imprecision |
Use when referring to a lack of accuracy or exactness, often associated with measurements or details.
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| inexactness |
Refers to a lack of precision or being not quite accurate, similar to imprecision. Often used when noting that something is not strictly correct, especially in measurements and descriptions.
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| imperfection |
Best used when referring to flaws, faults, or defects in an object, system, or even a person's character. Often carries a connotation of something being less than ideal.
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| approximation |
Suitable when you are referring to an estimate that is close to the correct value, often used in contexts like mathematics, calculations, and predictions.
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Examples of usage
- The imprecision in the calculation resulted in a margin of error.
- Due to the imprecision of the ruler, the length was not accurately measured.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In scientific experiments, imprecision can occur due to measurement errors, impacting the reliability of results.
- The precision of instruments affects the accuracy of data collected in fields like physics and chemistry.
- Statistical imprecision can lead to incorrect conclusions if data sets are not properly analyzed.
Philosophy
- Many philosophical debates, especially in logic, revolve around the imprecision of language and how it can distort meaning.
- Imprecision in arguments can lead to misunderstandings, highlighting the importance of clear definitions.
Technology
- In computer programming, imprecision in algorithms may lead to bugs and unexpected behavior in software.
- Artificial intelligence systems can struggle with imprecision, especially when humans give vague instructions.
Communication
- Ambiguous language can lead to imprecision in what someone tries to convey, often causing confusion.
- Effective communication strategies focus on reducing imprecision by using clear and precise language.
Origin of 'imprecision'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin roots: 'im-' meaning 'not' and 'precisus' meaning 'cut off or concise'.
- It was first used in English in the early 20th century, reflecting a growing emphasis on clarity in communication.
The word 'imprecision' originated from the Latin word 'imprecisus', which means 'not precise'. It entered the English language in the early 19th century. The concept of imprecision has been a crucial aspect of various fields, including science, mathematics, and engineering, where accuracy and precision are essential for reliable outcomes.