precise
Americanadjective
-
definitely or strictly stated, defined, or fixed.
precise directions.
- Synonyms:
- explicit
- Antonyms:
- vague, indefinite
-
being exactly that and neither more nor less.
a precise temperature;
a precise amount.
-
being just that and no other.
the precise dress she had wanted.
-
definite or exact in statement, as a person.
-
carefully distinct.
precise articulation.
-
exact in measuring, recording, etc..
a precise instrument.
-
excessively or rigidly particular.
precise observance of regulations;
precise grooming.
adjective
-
strictly correct in amount or value
a precise sum
-
designating a certain thing and no other; particular
this precise location
-
using or operating with total accuracy
precise instruments
-
strict in observance of rules, standards, etc
a precise mind
Related Words
See correct.
Other Word Forms
- overprecise adjective
- overprecisely adverb
- overpreciseness noun
- precisely adverb
- preciseness noun
- superprecise adjective
- superprecisely adverb
- superpreciseness noun
- ultraprecise adjective
- unprecise adjective
- unprecisely adverb
- unpreciseness noun
Etymology
Origin of precise
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”
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
By combining compact laser arrays, high-speed transmission, and precise optical control, this approach offers a practical path toward next-generation indoor wireless networks that deliver greater performance without increasing energy consumption.
From Science Daily • Apr. 2, 2026
ABS uses tracking technology — 12 Hawk-Eye cameras — to determine the precise location of a pitch relative to a batter’s specific strike zone.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026
The interior ministry statement said in a statement translated from Arabic: "Security forces immediately launched an operation to apprehend the perpetrators, acting on precise intelligence and through intensive field operations, tracking the kidnappers' movements."
From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026
It adds gentle richness and, crucially, a plush but defined crumb — one that feels almost cushioned, yet precise.
From Salon • Mar. 31, 2026
It was the face of somebody who has suddenly felt, for the first time, the precise shape and weight of their own swiftly beating heart.
From "Impossible Creatures" by Katherine Rundell
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
