# precise

/pɹiˈsaɪs/ (US) · /pɹɪsˈaɪs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/precise
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. exact and accurate

adjective · CEFR B2 · General-service

very exact and accurate in every detail.

For teachers: characterised by exactness and accuracy; strictly defined or stated.

- The scientist needed to take precise measurements for the experiment to work.
- The architect provided precise dimensions for the structural beams, ensuring that every component would fit together without the need for on-site adjustments.

### 2. consistent measurements

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

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

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

### 3. strict about rules

adjective · CEFR C2 · Formal · Literary

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

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

- He was a very precise man who always kept his desk perfectly tidy.
- Her precise manner of speaking and strict adherence to protocol often made her subordinates feel intimidated during formal reviews.

### 4. to specify

verb · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Formal

to make something clear or to give exact details.

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

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

## Examples

- The scientist needs precise measurements for the experiment.
- The engineer provided precise instructions to ensure the bridge was built exactly according to the safety plans.
- While the general theory was sound, the lack of precise data prevented the researchers from determining the exact moment the chemical reaction reached its peak.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.