What does "exactly" mean?

1. (precisely) in a way that is 100% correct or accurate, without any mistakes. 2. (emphasis) used to emphasize a word or to show that something is very specific.

exactly

adv.

US //ɪɡˈzæktɫi// UK //ɛɡzˈæktli// ex·act·ly

1 precisely (adv.)
A2 Elementary

in a way that is 100% correct or accurate, without any mistakes.

used to indicate that a statement or measurement is precise and without approximation.

Example

The train arrived at exactly ten o'clock, just as the schedule promised.

Example

The scientist needed to measure the chemical solution exactly to ensure the reaction proceeded safely and predictably.
- approximately
- roughly
2 emphasis (adv.)
B1 Intermediate

used to emphasize a word or to show that something is very specific.

used as a focus marker to provide emphasis to a specific part of a sentence.

Example

What exactly do you mean by that comment?

Example

It is not exactly clear why the board decided to veto the proposal after months of preliminary support.
- precisely
- just

Origin

From exact + -ly.

Idioms1 entry

01
do exactly what it says on the tin
To do what is described or what one would expect, with no further explanation needed.