exact
adj. · v.-
1 accurate and correct (adj.) A2 Elementarycompletely correct in every detail.
precisely agreeing with a standard, fact, or truth without any deviation.
ExampleI need the exact measurements of the room before I buy the carpet.
ExampleThe scientist recorded the exact temperature at which the chemical reaction began to ensure the experiment could be replicated.
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2 strict or careful (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediatevery careful to follow rules or be perfect.
characterized by strict adherence to standards, rules, or methods.
ExampleHe is very exact about how he wants his coffee prepared.
ExampleThe job requires an exact person who will not overlook even the smallest clerical errors in the financial reports.
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3 to demand and get (v.) C1 Advanced Formalto force someone to give you something, like money or an apology.
to demand and enforce the payment or performance of something, often through authority or force.
ExampleThe king used his power to exact high taxes from the people.
ExampleThe victorious army sought to exact a heavy toll from the local population as punishment for their resistance during the siege.
UsageThis is a transitive verb that always takes a direct object.
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4 to cause or require (v.) C1 Advanced Formalto make something necessary or to cause a result.
to make something desirable or necessary; to inflict or produce a specific effect.
ExampleThe long journey will exact a price on your health if you do not rest.
ExampleThe stressful nature of the high-stakes negotiations began to exact a visible toll on the lead diplomat's well-being.
From Latin exāctus (the verb via Middle English exact), perfect passive participle of exigō (“demand, claim as due; measure by a standard, weigh, test”), from ex (“out”) + agō (“drive”).