What does precise mean?
Precise means exact, accurate, and carefully detailed. It is especially useful when describing measurements, definitions, timing, wording, or any situation in which small differences matter. Saying that a result is precise suggests not only that it is correct, but that it has been stated or measured with careful attention to detail. The word can also describe a person: a precise speaker distinguishes ideas clearly, while a precise researcher avoids imprecision. In everyday use, “precise” often contrasts with vague, approximate, or careless language. It is common in academic, scientific, legal, and technical writing, although it is equally natural in ordinary conversation when someone wants to emphasize accuracy. The related adverb “precisely” can mean exactly or, in formal contexts, in great detail. The noun “precision” is used for the quality of being exact and for the accuracy of a measurement or method.
Exact, accurate, and attentive to detail; clearly defined or narrowly specified.
"The report gives a precise account of the events."
Often used in formal, technical, and academic contexts, but also natural in general speech.
Exactly or with great accuracy and detail.
"At precisely nine o'clock, the meeting began."
Less common than the adverb “precisely,” but standard in formal usage.
Precise comes from the Latin for “cut short,” a fitting origin for a word that leaves no room for vagueness.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of precise
The adjective entered English in the early 17th century from the French précis, which came from the Latin praecisus, a past participle of praecidere, meaning “to cut short” or “decide beforehand.” The Latin word praecisus also developed the sense of exact, definite, and carefully limited. English later developed related forms such as the adverb “precisely” and the noun “precision,” while the closely related noun “précis” retains its French spelling and accent.
Related word forms
How precise is actually used
The adjective is common in formal and technical contexts, especially in science, law, measurement, and careful planning. The adverb form, “precisely,” is also widely used; “precise” as an adverb is more formal and less common.
Easily confused with precise
Precise emphasizes exactness and careful attention to detail, while accurate primarily means correct or free from error.
Precise is an adjective meaning exact or carefully detailed, whereas premise is a noun meaning an underlying assumption or a statement on which an argument is based.