Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Precision: meaning, definitions and examples

⚖️
Add to dictionary

precision

 

[prɪˈsɪʒən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

measurement

The quality, condition, or fact of being exact and accurate.

Synonyms

accuracy, correctness, exactness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
precision

When you need to emphasize meticulous detail and strict adherence to the desired outcome or standard.

  • The engineer's precision in designing the circuit was remarkable.
  • Precision is key in surgical procedures.
accuracy

When focusing on how close a measurement or an estimate is to the true or accepted value.

  • The accuracy of the weather forecast was impressive.
  • A high level of accuracy is required for scientific experiments.
exactness

When emphasizing a very high degree of detail and absence of any deviation, similar to but not as commonly used as precision.

  • The exactness of the artist's replica was stunning.
  • Exactness is crucial in chemical measurements.
correctness

When talking about the state of being free from errors, often in relation to rules, procedures, or language.

  • Languages instructors emphasize the correctness of grammar.
  • The correctness of the algorithm was verified through multiple tests.

Examples of usage

  • The precision of the measurements was crucial for the experiment to be successful.
  • The precision of the machine was impressive, providing accurate results every time.
Context #2 | Noun

military

The quality in a measurement system that allows distinguishing between two close values.

Synonyms

accuracy, refinement, sharpness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
precision

Use this word when referring to the exactness or meticulous detail in measurements, calculations, or descriptions.

  • The precision of the instrument was crucial for the experiment.
  • Her precision in executing the dance moves was remarkable.
accuracy

This word is best for emphasizing the correctness or closeness to the true value. It's often used in contexts where verifying the truth or correctness is important.

  • The accuracy of the test results is vital for diagnosing the disease.
  • He has demonstrated great accuracy in his financial predictions.
refinement

Refinement is used when talking about the process of improving or perfecting something, often implying sophistication or elegance.

  • The refinement of the software's interface has greatly enhanced user experience.
  • Her writing style shows a lot of refinement compared to her earlier works.
sharpness

Sharpness can refer to the clear and distinct quality of an image, sound, or tool. It may carry a somewhat more informal or tangible connotation.

  • The sharpness of the photograph was impressive, capturing every detail.
  • The chef commented on the sharpness of his new knife.

Examples of usage

  • The precision of the sniper's rifle allowed for accurate targeting at long distances.
  • The precision of the missile system ensured minimal collateral damage.
Context #3 | Noun

engineering

The degree of refinement with which an operation is performed or a measurement stated.

Synonyms

accuracy, exactness, fine-tuning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
precision

Used when referring to the degree of refinement or detail in measurement or description. Often used in scientific and technical fields.

  • The surgeon's precision was apparent in the flawless stitches
  • The machine requires high precision for optimal performance
exactness

Emphasizes being strictly and completely correct or precise to very fine details. Often used in contexts where no deviation is tolerated.

  • The exactness of the model impressed the judges
  • She appreciated the exactness of his instructions
accuracy

Implies how close a measurement or observation is to the true value. Commonly used in contexts where correctness and reliability are important.

  • The accuracy of the data was crucial for the research study
  • His accuracy in predicting the weather was remarkable
fine-tuning

Refers to making small adjustments or minor improvements to achieve the best possible outcome. Often used in technical, artistic, or professional settings.

  • The guitarist spent hours fine-tuning his instrument
  • The software requires some fine-tuning before it is released

Examples of usage

  • The precision engineering of the components resulted in high-performance machinery.
  • The precision of the cutting tools allowed for intricate designs to be created.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'precision' comes from the Latin word 'praecisio', meaning 'a cutting off', suggesting something that has been trimmed down to perfection.
  • It entered Middle French as 'précision' before being adopted into English in the late 16th century.

Science

  • In scientific measurements, precision refers to how consistently a series of measurements can produce the same result, even if it's not the 'correct' one.
  • Precision is crucial in fields like engineering and computer programming, where small errors can lead to significant issues.

Pop Culture

  • The term has been popularized in modern contexts like cooking shows where chefs stress the importance of precise measurements for perfect recipes.
  • In sports like archery and shooting, precision is a key performance factor, often highlighted in competitions.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that individuals with a high need for precision often exhibit traits associated with perfectionism.
  • This desire for exactness can be beneficial in many domains but can also lead to anxiety and stress when outcomes don’t meet self-imposed standards.

Technology

  • In the field of computing, precision can refer to data accuracy, particularly in algorithms and models that require exact calculations.
  • Tools such as precision GPS technology have transformed navigation, enabling accurate location tracking within centimeters.

Translations

Translations of the word "precision" in other languages:

🇵🇹 precisão

🇮🇳 सटीकता (satikta)

🇩🇪 Genauigkeit

🇮🇩 ketepatan

🇺🇦 точність

🇵🇱 precyzja

🇯🇵 正確さ (seikaku-sa)

🇫🇷 précision

🇪🇸 precisión

🇹🇷 doğruluk

🇰🇷 정확성 (jeonghwakseong)

🇸🇦 دقة (diqqa)

🇨🇿 přesnost

🇸🇰 presnosť

🇨🇳 精确 (jīngquè)

🇸🇮 natančnost

🇮🇸 nákvæmni

🇰🇿 нақтылық (naqtylyq)

🇬🇪 სიზუსტე (sizuste)

🇦🇿 dəqiqlik

🇲🇽 precisión

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,355, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.