Precise describes something exact or clearly expressed, with attention to detail.

The idea

Place it before a noun in a precise measurement or after a verb in the instructions are precise. At that precise moment emphasizes exactly when.

Examples

  • Please give me the precise time of the meeting.
  • The chef gave precise instructions for the sauce.
  • Her description of the bird was precise enough to identify it.
  • We need a precise measurement before cutting the wood.
  • The lawyer chose precise words to avoid confusion.
  • At that precise moment, the lights went out.

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Watch out

Do not confuse precision with truth: a precise figure can still be wrong if the measurement is inaccurate.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the best word. The map gives the ___ location of the well. (precise / vague)

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    precise

    Precise fits because the location is specified exactly.

  2. Choose the best word. The report is precise: its figures are ___, not approximate. (exact / uncertain)

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    exact

    Exact contrasts with an approximation.

  3. Choose the best word. Choose the natural phrase: at that ___ moment. (precise / precision)

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    precise

    Precise is the adjective before the noun; precision is a noun.

Use it today

Describe a situation where precise information matters.