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

• precisely adverb
• preciseness noun
• 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

The club hits pulsed, her dancing was evocative and precise, and the set was again punctuated with a locally-sourced cover from each city she performs in; this time “The Chain” from Fleetwood Mac.

From Los Angeles Times

"We made over 300 and we were struggling through the middle there. As a batting group we will reflect on our dismissals and see where we can be more precise and secure those 300-plus totals."

From BBC

Los Angeles Police Department Capt. Scot Williams confirmed the timeline but did not provide a precise time of death.

From Los Angeles Times

The precise stance it takes on taxation ahead of the next general election, however, is not yet clear.

From BBC

Ultimately, Hoffman said, the U.S. does need a clear and precise law on domestic terrorism.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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