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

Derived Forms

• preˈciseness, noun

Other Words From

• pre·cisely adverb
• pre·ciseness noun
• over·pre·cise adjective
• over·pre·cisely adverb
• over·pre·ciseness noun
• super·pre·cise adjective
• super·pre·cisely adverb
• super·pre·ciseness noun
• ultra·pre·cise adjective
• unpre·cise adjective
• unpre·cisely adverb
• unpre·ciseness 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

The precise functioning of this particular coating is currently something of a mystery, though.

From BBC

"With precise knowledge of DNA repair, we can design new treatments that are both more effective and less harmful," says De Luca.

From Science Daily

Naturally, these chlorophyll molecules are organized into precise structures to optimize light absorption in plants and bacteria, and efficiently capture sunlight for energy.

From Science Daily

When worn on the forearm, it offers precise, real-time readings of blood pressure deep within the body.

From Science Daily

The Ukrainian Air Force did not make public what the precise target in Dnipro might have been or what damage might have been caused.

From New York Times

Related Words

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