How to say "precise" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 正確せいかくna-adjective, nounCovers 'precise' in its basic sense of accurate and free of error — facts, figures, information that contain no mistakes. When you simply mean 'correct in every detail,' this is the word you want.
- 明確めいかくna-adjectiveTakes 'precise' to mean clear-cut and unambiguous rather than accurate — a precise instruction, definition, or purpose is one stated so definitely that it cannot be misunderstood.
- 精密せいみつna-adjective, nounThe word for 'precise' in technical and scientific contexts, where it implies fine, minute exactness — precision instruments, delicate measurements, detailed work. It stresses meticulous fineness rather than mere correctness.
- 厳密げんみつna-adjectiveCovers 'precise' in the sense of strict and rigorous — a precisely defined term, a strict interpretation, or 'precisely speaking.' The emphasis is on rigor and allowing no vagueness.
- 的確てきかくna-adjective, nounUsed when 'precise' describes a judgment, assessment, or remark that is exactly right and to the point — the nuance is aptness, hitting the mark, rather than technical exactness.
Choose 正確 for plain accuracy, 明確 for clarity and definiteness, 精密 for fine technical precision, 厳密 for strict rigor, and 的確 for judgments that are apt and on target.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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