Accurate vs. Precise — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on November 2, 2023
Accurate means correct in all details; precise means exact and specific, often with a narrow focus.
Difference Between Accurate and Precise
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Accurate conveys correctness and conformity to truth or fact, while precise emphasizes detail and exactness without necessarily being correct.
Accurate information has been verified against a standard or accepted version, whereas precise information is about specificity, regardless of its truthfulness.
A clock can be precise in its movements but not accurate if it shows the wrong time, while an accurate clock may not be precise if it only shows the hour.
Accuracy relates to the quality of being close to the true value, while precision relates to the consistency of results.
A weather forecast can be accurate if it predicts the correct temperature, but it is precise when it gives the temperature down to the exact degree.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Correct and true to fact
Exact, detailed, and specific
Focus
Truth and factual correctness
Specificity and exactness
Example
A correct answer in a quiz
The exact measurement of an ingredient
Measurement
Close to true or target value
Consistent results
Necessity
Necessary for truthfulness
Necessary for specificity
Compare with Definitions
Accurate
Faithfully representing.
The novel was an accurate portrayal of the era.
Precise
Distinct.
His precise mannerisms distinguished him from others.
Accurate
Conforming to fact.
The watch kept accurate time.
Precise
Specificity.
Please be precise in your instructions.
Accurate
Correct.
Her summary was accurate in all details.
Precise
Minute detail.
The engineer demanded precise specifications.
Accurate
Free from error.
The historian's account was accurate.
Precise
Sharply defined.
The artist's precise lines added depth to the painting.
Accurate
Precisely exact.
His description of the event was surprisingly accurate.
Precise
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Accurate
(especially of information, measurements, or predictions) correct in all details; exact
Accurate information about the illness is essential
An accurate assessment
Precise
Marked by exactness and accuracy of expression or detail
Precise directions
I want as precise a time of death as I can get
Accurate
(with reference to a weapon, missile, or shot) capable of or successful in reaching the intended target
Reliable, accurate rifles
A player who can deliver long accurate passes to the wingers
Precise
Clearly expressed or delineated; definite
The victim gave a precise description of the suspect.
Accurate
Conforming exactly to fact; errorless.
Precise
Exact, as in performance, execution, or amount; accurate or correct
A precise measurement.
A precise instrument.
Accurate
Deviating only slightly or within acceptable limits from a standard.
Precise
Strictly distinguished from others; very
At that precise moment.
Accurate
Capable of providing a correct reading or measurement
An accurate scale.
Precise
Distinct and correct in sound or meaning
Precise pronunciation.
Precise prose.
Accurate
Acting or performing with care and precision; meticulous
An accurate proofreader.
Precise
Conforming strictly to rule or proper form
"The setting up of this Maypole was a lamentable spectacle to the precise separatists that lived at New Plymouth" (Thomas Morton).
Accurate
Telling the truth or giving a true result; exact; not defective or faulty
An accurate calculator
An accurate measure
Accurate knowledge
Precise
Exact, accurate
Accurate
Deviating only slightly or within acceptable limits.
My horoscopes I read last week were surprisingly accurate.
Precise
Consistent, clustered close together, agreeing with each other this does not mean that they cluster near the true, correct, or accurate value
Accurate
(obsolete) Precisely fixed; executed with care; careful.
Precise
Adhering too much to rules; prim or punctilious
Accurate
In exact or careful conformity to truth, or to some standard of requirement, the result of care or pains; free from failure, error, or defect; exact; as, an accurate calculator; an accurate measure; accurate expression, knowledge, etc.
Precise
To make or render precise; to specify.
Accurate
Precisely fixed; executed with care; careful.
Those conceive the celestial bodies have more accurate influences upon these things below.
Precise
Having determinate limitations; exactly or sharply defined or stated; definite; exact; nice; not vague or equivocal; as, precise rules of morality.
The law in this point is not precise.
For the hour preciseExacts our parting hence.
Accurate
Conforming exactly or almost exactly to fact or to a standard or performing with total accuracy;
An accurate reproduction
The accounting was accurate
Accurate measurements
An accurate scale
Precise
Strictly adhering or conforming to rule; very nice or exact; punctilious in conduct or ceremony; formal; ceremonious.
He was ever precise in promise-keeping.
Accurate
(of ideas, images, representations, expressions) characterized by perfect conformity to fact or truth ; strictly correct;
A precise image
A precise measurement
Precise
Sharply exact or accurate or delimited;
A precise mind
Specified a precise amount
Arrived at the precise moment
Precise
(of ideas, images, representations, expressions) characterized by perfect conformity to fact or truth ; strictly correct;
A precise image
A precise measurement
Precise
Exactness.
She cut the fabric with precise measurements.
Common Curiosities
Why is it important for measurements to be both accurate and precise?
To ensure they correctly and consistently reflect the true value or standard.
What does "precise" mean?
It means being exact, specific, and sharply defined in detail.
Can something be accurate but not precise?
Yes, results can be accurate on average, but not precise if there’s a lot of variation.
Is accuracy or precision more important in scientific research?
Both are crucial, but it depends on the context and nature of the research.
Can something be precise but not accurate?
Yes, you can have precise but inaccurate results if they are consistently wrong.
Are "accurate" and "precise" synonyms?
They are related but not synonymous, as they highlight different qualities.
What is an example of precision in everyday life?
Using a recipe with measurements to the nearest 1/8 teaspoon is an example of precision.
What does "accurate" mean?
It means correct and free from any error, closely aligning with the truth or a standard.
Can accuracy be improved?
Yes, by refining methods, calibration, and double-checking information.
How do I know if information is accurate?
Verify it against a reliable source or through confirmation by additional evidence.
In what fields is precision mandatory?
Fields like engineering, science, and technology demand high precision.
What is an example of accuracy in everyday life?
Citing the right source in a school paper is an example of accuracy.
How can I ensure precision in my work?
Use specific and clear definitions, and pay close attention to detail.
Can precision be improved?
Yes, through consistent technique and attention to detail.
How do "accurate" and "precise" apply to a GPS device?
An accurate GPS gives the true location, while a precise GPS provides the location with detailed coordinates.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
