Precise: meaning, definitions and examples

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precise

[prɪˈsaɪs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

measurement

Marked by exactness and accuracy; very accurate or exact.

Synonyms

accurate, correct, exact, meticulous.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
precise	Used when something is very clear and specific, often down to the smallest detail. It is often used in scientific or technical settings where precision is crucial. The measurements need to be very precise in this experiment. She gave a precise description of the route.
accurate	This word is used when something is correct and free from errors, often referring to information, data, or results that are close to the truth or to a standard. The weather forecast was surprisingly accurate. The test results were accurate.
exact	Used when you need to describe something that is entirely precise and without any deviation. Often used in contexts where small differences matter significantly. I need the exact time of your arrival. Her answer was exact and left no room for misunderstanding.
correct	Used when something is free from mistakes or errors. Often used in educational settings, exams, or when checking facts. Please check if your answers are correct. The correct spelling of the word is 'accommodate'.
meticulous	Refers to showing great attention to detail and being very careful. It is often used to describe people or processes that focus on every small detail. She did a meticulous job of organizing the files. His research was meticulous and thorough.

Examples of usage

Her movements were precise and graceful.
The watch was very precise, losing only a few seconds per day.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

language

Exact in terms of meaning, expression, or detail.

Synonyms

clear-cut, concise, exact, specific.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
precise	Use 'precise' when you want to emphasize accuracy and detail in your description or measurement. The scientist provided a precise measurement of the chemical compound. Her instructions were very precise, leaving no room for error.
exact	Use 'exact' to emphasize that something is completely correct in every detail. She remembered his exact words during the argument. Can you give me the exact amount needed for the project?
specific	Use 'specific' when referring to something particular rather than something general. She provided specific examples to illustrate her point. The teacher gave specific instructions for the assignment.
clear-cut	Use 'clear-cut' to describe situations or decisions that are obvious and not ambiguous. The evidence made the case clear-cut and easy for the jury to decide. There was a clear-cut distinction between the two policies.
concise	Use 'concise' when you need to say something briefly and clearly, without unnecessary words. His speech was concise, lasting only five minutes. The report was concise and to the point.

Examples of usage

He gave a precise answer to the question.
The author's writing style is very precise and clear.

^{Context #3 | Adverb}

timing

Done in a detailed and exact way; exactly as stated.

Synonyms

accurately, carefully, exactly, faithfully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
precise	Used when something needs to be very exact or specific, often used in scientific or technical contexts. His measurements were precise to the nearest millimeter The instructions were precise and left no room for error
exactly	Used for emphasizing that something is completely correct or fits a description perfectly, often in conversations or informal writing. That's exactly what I was looking for She arrived at exactly 7 PM
accurately	Used to describe actions or processes that are done without mistakes, often in contexts involving data, measurement, or reporting. She can type very accurately The report accurately reflects the current state of affairs
carefully	Used when emphasizing caution or attentiveness to avoid mistakes or accidents, suitable for both physical and mental tasks. He carefully packed the fragile items Read the instructions carefully before beginning
faithfully	Used when something is done in a true or loyal manner, often used in contexts involving copying or following instructions closely. He faithfully recreated the antique furniture The translator tried to capture the meaning faithfully

Examples of usage

She followed the instructions precisely.
The surgery was carried out precisely as planned.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'precise' comes from the Latin word 'praecisus,' meaning 'cut off' or 'shortened,' which relates to being exact.
It entered the English language in the late 14th century, during a time when many Latin words influenced English vocabulary.

Science

In scientific experiments, precise measurements are crucial for obtaining reliable results and validating hypotheses.
Precision is often compared to accuracy, where precision refers to consistency of measurements, while accuracy means how close a measurement is to the true value.

Psychology

Psychologists study precision in communication, as clear and precise language helps prevent misunderstandings in social interactions.
Research shows that individuals who communicate precisely are often perceived as more competent and trustworthy.

Pop Culture

The film 'Precise Timing' explores the implications of accuracy in decision-making and how it affects people's lives.
Precise choreography in dance performances captivates audiences by showcasing the dancers' skills and attention to detail.

Literature

Writers use precise language to create vivid imagery, allowing readers to clearly visualize scenes and emotions.
Famous poets like Emily Dickinson are known for their precise word choices, which convey deep meaning in just a few words.

Translations

Translations of the word "precise" in other languages:

🇵🇹 preciso

🇮🇳 सटीक

🇩🇪 präzise

🇮🇩 tepat

🇺🇦 точний

🇵🇱 dokładny

🇯🇵 正確な (seikaku na)

🇫🇷 précis

🇪🇸 preciso

🇹🇷 kesin

🇰🇷 정확한 (jeonghwakan)

정확한 (jeonghwakan)
정밀한 (jeongmilhan)

🇸🇦 دقيق

🇨🇿 přesný

🇸🇰 presný

🇨🇳 精确的 (jīngquè de)

🇸🇮 natančen

🇮🇸 nákvæmur

🇰🇿 нақты

🇬🇪 ზუსტი

🇦🇿 dəqiq

🇲🇽 preciso

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,254, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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3251 canal
3252 forgotten
3253 strictly
3254 precise
3255 returning
3256 stem
3257 cylinder
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