What does precisely mean?
Precisely is an adverb meaning exactly, accurately, or with exact attention to detail. It is especially common when describing measurements, positions, timing, methods, or careful distinctions: the two objects were precisely aligned, or the figure precisely matches the estimate. The word can also stand alone as an emphatic response meaning “that is exactly right,” as in a discussion where a speaker says, “Precisely.” This usage may sound formal, corrective, or strongly affirmative, depending on context. Related forms include the adjective precise and the noun precision, which is used for both the quality of being exact and the ability to make accurate distinctions. Precisely is useful when a statement requires strictness or when a general claim needs to be expressed more narrowly, particularly in the common construction “more precisely.”
adverbExactly or accurately, with close attention to detail. It can also mean “exactly” when emphasizing agreement or a precise point.
- Exactly or accurately, especially with respect to position, measurement, timing, or detail.
- Used independently to emphasize that a statement is exactly correct or agrees completely.
"She measured the fabric precisely before cutting it."
"The two recordings are precisely the same length."
"Precisely: that is the distinction the committee asked us to make."
Precisely comes from a Latin root associated with cutting or trimming, a neat reminder that precision can mean reducing something to its exact limits.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does precisely come from?
The adverb was formed in early 17th-century English from the adjective precise, which was borrowed from French précis. In turn, these forms came from Latin praecisus, a past participle meaning “cut short” or “made exact,” associated with praecidere, “to cut off.” The same Latin family produced précis, precision, and concise, all of which reflect the idea of cutting or separating something into exact limits.
Related word forms
How precisely is actually used
Precisely is formal but widely used in ordinary speech. As a standalone response, it can convey emphatic agreement, though in a discussion it may sound corrective; “exactly” is often more conversational. “More precisely” is commonly used to narrow or refine a preceding statement.
Easily confused with precisely
Precisely means exactly or accurately, whereas precious means highly valued or of great importance.