Translation guide
The English word 'precise' can describe exact measurements, clear details, careful actions, or strict accuracy. In Japanese, different words and patterns are used depending on whether you mean numerically exact, clearly detailed, meticulously careful, or strictly accurate.
Describing a number, time, amount, or measurement that is exact and not approximate.
The most common and versatile adjective for 'precise' in the sense of being accurate and free from error. Used for numbers, measurements, clocks, etc.
This clock is very precise.
Please tell me the precise number.
Emphasizes high precision, often used for instruments, machinery, or technical measurements. Slightly more formal/technical than 正確.
Precise measurement is necessary.
An adverb meaning 'exactly' or 'precisely' when something fits or matches perfectly. Often used for amounts, sizes, or times.
It was precisely 1000 yen.
Describing instructions, descriptions, or explanations that are clear, specific, and leave no ambiguity.
Means 'clear and definite'. Best for precise instructions, definitions, or criteria.
Please give precise instructions.
His explanation was precise.
Means 'rigorous' or 'strictly precise'. Used when exactness is demanded, often in academic or legal contexts.
A precise definition is needed.
Describing a person or action that is very careful, exact, and attentive to detail.
Describes a person who is methodical, meticulous, and pays attention to detail. Often used for personality traits.
She has a precise personality.
Take notes in a precise manner.
Literally 'fine' or 'detailed'. Can mean precise when referring to careful attention to small details, but can also imply being picky.
Can sometimes mean 'trivial' or 'stingy' depending on context.
Means 'careful' or 'polite'. When used for work, it implies doing something with great care and precision.
His work is precise and careful.
Emphasizing that something must be exactly right, with no tolerance for mistakes.
Means 'strict' or 'rigid'. Used for rules, standards, or criteria that are precisely enforced.
It must meet precise standards.
正確 (seikaku) is general accuracy; 精密 (seimitsu) is high technical precision; 明確 (meikaku) is clarity and definiteness. Choose based on whether you emphasize correctness, fineness, or clarity.
English 'precise' is often used where Japanese would use a more specific word. For example, 'precise instructions' is 明確な指示, not 正確な指示 (which sounds like 'accurate instructions'). Match the nuance to the context.
He is good at precise work.