Imprecision: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when describing something that lacks exactness or detail. Suitable for technical, scientific, or analytic discussions.

• The imprecision in the experiment's measurements limited the reliability of the results

Best used when discussing errors or mistakes in information, figures, or measurements. Common in academic, scientific, and technical contexts.

• The inaccuracy in the data led to incorrect conclusions in the report

Related to something that is not clearly expressed or is too general. Usually used in everyday language, literature, and sometimes in politics.

• The vagueness of her answer made it hard to understand her true feelings

Ideal for situations where there is a lack of certainty or confidence about outcomes or facts. Often applied in business, science, and weather forecasting.

• There is still a lot of uncertainty about the economic impact of the new policy

Relevant when talking about something that can be understood in multiple ways or is unclear. Common in literary, legal, and everyday contexts.

• The ambiguity in his statement left everyone confused about his true intentions

Use when referring to a lack of accuracy or exactness, often associated with measurements or details.

• There was a noticeable imprecision in the data collected during the experiment.
• The imprecision of the clock caused it to lose a few seconds every day.

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.

• The inexactness of the report made it difficult to draw clear conclusions.
• Because of the inexactness of the map, we got lost in the city.

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.

• Even the most beautiful artworks have their own imperfections.
• The product had a minor imperfection that did not affect its overall quality.

Suitable when you are referring to an estimate that is close to the correct value, often used in contexts like mathematics, calculations, and predictions.

• The budget figures are just an approximation and may change slightly.
• She gave an approximation of the distance, saying it was about 5 miles.