# precision

/pɹiˈsɪʒən/ (US) · /pɹɪsˈɪʒən/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. exactness

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the quality of being very accurate and careful in what you do.

For teachers: the quality of being precise or exact; the state of being both accurate and detailed in execution or description.

- The surgeon performed the operation with great precision.
- The legal document was drafted with such precision that there was no room for misinterpretation by the opposing counsel.

### 2. scientific consistency

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

how close several measurements are to each other.

For teachers: the ability of a measurement to be reproduced consistently under unchanged conditions; distinct from accuracy, which measures closeness to a true value.

- The lab results showed high precision, as every test gave the same number.
- While the instrument displayed high precision by returning consistent readings, its lack of calibration meant the accuracy remained poor.

### 3. significant digits

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

the number of digits used to show how exact a measurement is.

For teachers: the number of significant digits or decimal places to which a value is measured or expressed.

- The computer calculates the trajectory of the rocket with double precision.
- The software allows users to adjust the level of numerical precision depending on the complexity of the statistical model being tested.

### 4. highly accurate tools

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

describing a tool or machine made to be very exact.

For teachers: designed for or capable of exact measurement or operation; characterized by high accuracy.

- The factory uses precision tools to make the tiny parts for watches.
- The aerospace industry relies on precision engineering to ensure that every component fits perfectly within the engine assembly.

## Examples

- The surgeon works with great precision.
- The engineer checked the measurements again to ensure the parts would fit together with absolute precision.
- In high-stakes manufacturing, even a microscopic lack of precision can lead to catastrophic structural failure, necessitating rigorous quality control protocols at every stage of production.

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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.