precise

[pri-sahys]

adjective

1. definitely or strictly stated, defined, or fixed.

   precise directions.

   Synonyms: explicit
   Antonyms: vague, indefinite

2. being exactly that and neither more nor less.

   a precise temperature;

   a precise amount.

3. being just that and no other.

   the precise dress she had wanted.

4. definite or exact in statement, as a person.

5. carefully distinct.

   precise articulation.

6. exact in measuring, recording, etc..

   a precise instrument.

7. excessively or rigidly particular.

   precise observance of regulations;

   precise grooming.

precise

/ prɪˈsaɪs /

adjective

1. strictly correct in amount or value

   a precise sum

2. designating a certain thing and no other; particular

   this precise location

3. using or operating with total accuracy

   precise instruments

4. strict in observance of rules, standards, etc

   a precise mind

Other Word Forms

• preciseness noun
• precisely adverb
• overprecise adjective
• overprecisely adverb
• overpreciseness noun
• superprecise adjective
• superprecisely adverb
• superpreciseness noun
• ultraprecise adjective
• unprecise adjective
• unprecisely adverb
• unpreciseness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of precise¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Latin praecīsus “curtailed, brief,” originally past participle of praecīdere “to cut off, cut short,” equivalent to prae- pre- + -cīdere, combining form of caedere “to cut”

Word History and Origins

Origin of precise¹

C16: from French précis, from Latin praecīdere to curtail, from prae before + caedere to cut

Synonym Study

See correct.

Example Sentences

It said precautionary measures had been taken to mitigate harm to civilians, "including advance warnings to the population" and the use of "precise munitions".

From BBC

In early-career interviews, it’s clear Burrell was already drawn to a style of teaching that was theatrical, precise, and infused with joy; the kind of instruction that makes you lean in, listen, and try again.

From Salon

It was minimalist, precise, and engineered for a purpose.

From BBC

While many of the rings were "relatively clear", others were less distinctive which made it "challenging" to complete a precise count, the spokesman said.

From BBC

But Djokovic instantly hit back - helped by his opponent hitting a double fault on break point - before regaining control with a precise serving game which Norrie largely failed to trouble.

From BBC

Related Words

• accurate 
• actual 
• clear-cut 
• correct 
• decisive 
• definite 
• exact 
• explicit 
• literal 
• narrow 
• particular 
• proper 
• rigid 
• rigorous 
• specific 
• strict