ENGLISH
REFERENCE

precise

adj. · v.
US //pɹiˈsaɪs// UK //pɹɪsˈaɪs// pre·cise
  1. 1 exact and accurate (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate General-service

    very exact and accurate in every detail.

    characterised by exactness and accuracy; strictly defined or stated.

    Example

    The scientist needed to take precise measurements for the experiment to work.

    Example

    The architect provided precise dimensions for the structural beams, ensuring that every component would fit together without the need for on-site adjustments.
  2. 2 consistent measurements (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    when several measurements or results are very close to each other.

    referring to the degree of reproducibility or consistency between multiple measurements, regardless of their proximity to the true value.

    Example

    The clock is precise because it loses exactly one second every day.

    Example

    While the sensor's readings were highly precise, they were not accurate, as they consistently overshot the actual temperature by five degrees.

    Usage

    In scientific contexts, 'precise' is often distinguished from 'accurate'.
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  1. 3 strict about rules (adj.)
    C2 Proficiency Formal Literary

    very careful about following rules or behaving in a formal way.

    excessively concerned with rules, details, or etiquette; punctilious in manner.

    Example

    He was a very precise man who always kept his desk perfectly tidy.

    Example

    Her precise manner of speaking and strict adherence to protocol often made her subordinates feel intimidated during formal reviews.
  2. 4 to specify (v.)
    C2 Proficiency Archaic Formal

    to make something clear or to give exact details.

    to render something precise or to specify details clearly. This usage is rare in modern English and often considered nonstandard.

    Example

    The contract failed to precise the exact date of the delivery.

    Example

    The legal counsel requested that the witness precise the timeline of events before the cross-examination continued.

    Usage

    Usually functions as a transitive verb taking a direct object.
Origin

From Middle French précis, from Latin praecīsus, perfect passive participle of praecīdere, from prae- (“before, in front”) + caedere (“cut; strike”), cognate with hit. Related to incise. Doublet of précis.

Word family

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