precise

[pri-sahys]

adjective

1. definitely or strictly stated, defined, or fixed.

   precise directions.

   Synonyms: explicit
   Antonyms: vague, indefinite

2. being exactly that and neither more nor less.

   a precise temperature;

   a precise amount.

3. being just that and no other.

   the precise dress she had wanted.

4. definite or exact in statement, as a person.

5. carefully distinct.

   precise articulation.

6. exact in measuring, recording, etc..

   a precise instrument.

7. excessively or rigidly particular.

   precise observance of regulations;

   precise grooming.

precise

/ prɪˈsaɪs /

adjective

1. strictly correct in amount or value

   a precise sum

2. designating a certain thing and no other; particular

   this precise location

3. using or operating with total accuracy

   precise instruments

4. strict in observance of rules, standards, etc

   a precise mind

Other Word Forms

• preciseness noun
• precisely adverb
• overprecise adjective
• overprecisely adverb
• overpreciseness noun
• superprecise adjective
• superprecisely adverb
• superpreciseness noun
• ultraprecise adjective
• unprecise adjective
• unprecisely adverb
• unpreciseness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of precise¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Latin praecīsus “curtailed, brief,” originally past participle of praecīdere “to cut off, cut short,” equivalent to prae- pre- + -cīdere, combining form of caedere “to cut”

Word History and Origins

Origin of precise¹

C16: from French précis, from Latin praecīdere to curtail, from prae before + caedere to cut

Synonym Study

See correct.

Example Sentences

United are not alone in paying fees in installments over a period of time and the precise amounts they have to pay and when are unclear.

From BBC

They often precede harmful algae blooms, though scientists are still trying to figure out the precise balance of factors that lead to sudden explosions in toxin-producing algae species.

From Los Angeles Times

Later, a cardiologist explained that life or death can depend on the precise point in the heartbeat when electricity enters the body.

From Los Angeles Times

Trying to get a precise figure from government officials is challenging, to put it mildly, but I understand from sources it's about £600,000.

From BBC

While its charm lies in its refusal of precise definition, junk journaling generally consists of compiling scrap items and keepsakes into curated notebooks, which can also contain personal musings, ornamental stickers and other embellishments.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• accurate 
• actual 
• clear-cut 
• correct 
• decisive 
• definite 
• exact 
• explicit 
• literal 
• narrow 
• particular 
• proper 
• rigid 
• rigorous 
• specific 
• strict