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A2 adjective #1,500 am häufigsten 10 Min. Lesezeit

preciso

Top 1,500

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Erklärung preciso in your Level:

At the A1 level, you will mostly see 'preciso' in its simplest form to mean 'exact' or 'just right'. It is often used with time or simple objects. For example, 'el momento preciso' (the exact moment). You might also encounter it in very basic instructions like 'es preciso' meaning 'it is necessary', though 'es necesario' is much more common for beginners. Focus on the idea of something being 'correct' or 'perfectly timed'. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just recognize it as a word for accuracy.

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As an A2 learner, you should start using 'preciso' to describe measurements and details. You can use it to say 'un reloj preciso' (a precise clock) or 'un mapa preciso' (a precise map). This is also the stage where you should learn to distinguish 'preciso' from 'precioso' (beautiful). Remember that 'preciso' is about facts and numbers, while 'precioso' is about feelings and aesthetics. You might also start seeing 'es preciso' in short phrases like 'es preciso estudiar' (it is necessary to study).

At the B1 level, the grammar of 'preciso' becomes more important. You will learn the 'Es preciso que...' construction, which requires the subjunctive mood. For example: 'Es preciso que hablemos' (It is necessary that we talk). You should also be able to use the adverbial form 'precisamente' to add emphasis to your sentences, meaning 'precisely' or 'exactly'. You are moving beyond simple descriptions into expressing needs and logical requirements in a more formal way.

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By B2, you should use 'preciso' to add nuance to your professional and academic Spanish. It is the perfect word for describing 'datos precisos' (precise data) or 'instrucciones precisas' (precise instructions) in a work environment. You should understand the subtle difference between 'preciso' and 'exacto', using 'preciso' when you want to emphasize the meticulous nature of something. You will also encounter it more in literature and formal news reports where it replaces common words to sound more sophisticated.

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At the C1 level, you explore the philosophical and stylistic uses of 'preciso'. You can use it to describe a 'estilo preciso' in writing—one that is concise and avoids unnecessary words. You will also understand its use in legal and technical documents where every 'coma' must be 'precisa'. You should be comfortable using 'preciso' in complex rhetorical structures and recognize its use in idiomatic expressions across different Spanish-speaking countries, such as its use as an exclamation of irony or coincidence.

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For C2 learners, 'preciso' is a tool for absolute linguistic mastery. You understand its etymological roots in Latin and how that 'cutting' metaphor applies to modern usage. You can use it to discuss abstract concepts like 'la precisión del pensamiento' (the precision of thought). You are also aware of regional variations, such as the specific way 'preciso' is used in the Southern Cone versus Spain or Mexico. At this level, you don't just use the word; you use it to define the very boundaries of your communication.

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preciso in 30 Sekunden

Preciso means exact, accurate, or strictly necessary.
It is used for measurements, timing, and formal requirements.
Commonly paired with 'ser' in the phrase 'es preciso'.
Requires the subjunctive mood when expressing necessity with 'que'.

The Spanish adjective preciso is a linguistic powerhouse, functioning as a bridge between mathematical certainty and existential necessity. At its core, it describes something that is defined with absolute clarity, leaving no room for ambiguity or error. In the world of measurements, a 'reloj preciso' (precise clock) is one that aligns perfectly with the passage of time. However, the word carries a secondary, equally vital meaning: that which is strictly necessary or required. This dual nature makes it indispensable for both scientific discourse and daily logistical planning.

Exactitude: Refers to the quality of being accurate and free from error. It is the opposite of 'vago' (vague) or 'aproximado' (approximate).

El cirujano realizó un corte preciso para evitar dañar los nervios.

Example of physical precision in a medical context.

When we talk about 'preciso' in terms of necessity, we often see it in the impersonal expression 'es preciso' (it is necessary). This usage is slightly more formal than 'es necesario' but carries a weight of inevitability. If something is 'preciso', it is not just a suggestion; it is a requirement dictated by the circumstances. For instance, 'es preciso actuar ahora' implies that the window of opportunity is closing and immediate action is the only logical response.

Conciseness: In literature and speech, 'preciso' describes a style that uses exactly the right words without fluff. A 'lenguaje preciso' avoids filler.

Necesito el dato preciso de las ventas de ayer.

Historically, the word derives from the Latin 'praecisus', the past participle of 'praecidere', meaning 'to cut off' or 'to shorten'. This etymological root explains why 'preciso' feels so sharp; it is something that has been 'cut' to its exact dimensions, removing everything superfluous. In modern Spanish, this 'cutting away' manifests as clarity. Whether you are describing a 'momento preciso' (the exact moment) or a 'herramienta precisa' (a precise tool), you are highlighting the elimination of waste and error.

Llegaste en el momento preciso para la cena.

Technical Use: In engineering and science, 'preciso' refers to the reproducibility of measurements, often paired with 'exacto' (accuracy).

Es preciso que revises los cálculos antes de la entrega.

El dibujo es muy preciso en sus detalles.

Using 'preciso' correctly requires understanding its placement and the grammatical structures it triggers. When used as an adjective modifying a noun, it typically follows the noun to emphasize the quality of accuracy: 'un informe preciso'. However, when it takes on the meaning of 'necessary', it often appears in impersonal constructions followed by the subjunctive mood or an infinitive. This versatility allows it to shift from a descriptive tool to a logical connector within a sentence.

With the Subjunctive: When you say 'Es preciso que...', you must use the subjunctive: 'Es preciso que *vengas*'. This indicates a requirement for someone else to act.

Para ganar, es preciso que el equipo trabaje unido.

In descriptive contexts, 'preciso' agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies. You would say 'instrucciones precisas' (feminine plural) or 'un mapa preciso' (masculine singular). It is important to distinguish this from 'precioso', which means 'beautiful' or 'precious'. A common learner error is saying 'un anillo preciso' when they mean 'un anillo precioso'. Unless the ring is mathematically perfect in its dimensions, 'precioso' is likely the intended word.

Adverbial Form: To describe how an action is performed, use 'precisamente'. This means 'precisely' or 'exactly'.

El relojero es muy preciso con las piezas pequeñas.

When used to mean 'exact', 'preciso' can often be replaced by 'exacto'. However, 'preciso' often carries a connotation of 'fine-tuned' or 'meticulous'. For example, 'una balanza precisa' (a precise scale) suggests high-quality engineering. In contrast, 'una respuesta exacta' (an exact answer) simply means it is correct. Use 'preciso' when you want to highlight the skill or technology behind the accuracy.

Buscamos el punto preciso de cocción de la carne.

Placement Nuance: Placing 'preciso' before the noun (e.g., 'el preciso instante') adds poetic or dramatic emphasis to the timing.

No tengo el número preciso de asistentes.

Es preciso recordar que el tiempo es limitado.

'Preciso' is a staple in professional and academic environments. You will hear it frequently in news broadcasts, scientific documentaries, and business meetings. In a laboratory, a researcher might discuss 'mediciones precisas' (precise measurements). In a courtroom, a lawyer might demand a 'relato preciso' (precise account) of the events. It is a word that commands respect because it signals a commitment to truth and detail.

In the News: Journalists use it to specify locations or times: 'En el lugar preciso del accidente...' (At the exact location of the accident...).

El satélite proporcionó una ubicación precisa.

In everyday conversation, it often appears in the phrase 'en el momento preciso'. This is used when something happens at the perfect time, like meeting a friend just when you needed help. You might also hear it in instructions, especially in cooking or DIY projects: 'Es preciso añadir la sal al final'. Here, it acts as a polite but firm directive. In some regions, like Colombia or Mexico, you might hear '¡Preciso!' as an exclamation meaning 'Exactly!' or 'Just my luck!' depending on the tone.

In Literature: Authors use it to describe sharp imagery or concise dialogue. Jorge Luis Borges often used 'preciso' to describe metaphysical concepts.

Fue preciso abandonar la casa antes del amanecer.

In the tech world, 'preciso' is everywhere. From 'geolocalización precisa' to 'algoritmos precisos', it is the adjective of choice for marketing high-tech features. If you are reading a manual for a new gadget, look for the section on 'ajustes precisos' (fine adjustments). This implies that the user has granular control over the device. In sports commentary, a 'pase preciso' (precise pass) is one that lands exactly at the teammate's feet, often leading to a goal.

El GPS no es muy preciso en esta zona de túneles.

In Business: 'Necesitamos un presupuesto preciso' means 'We need an exact budget', not an estimate.

Danos un resumen preciso de la situación.

El diagnóstico médico fue muy preciso.

The most frequent pitfall for English speakers is the 'false friend' confusion between 'preciso' and 'precious'. In English, 'precious' means valuable or beloved (Spanish: *precioso*). In Spanish, 'preciso' means exact or necessary. If you tell someone 'Tu hijo es muy preciso', you are saying the child is very accurate or punctual, which sounds strange. You likely meant 'Tu hijo es muy precioso' (Your son is very precious/cute).

Preciso vs. Precioso: Preciso = Accurate/Necessary. Precioso = Beautiful/Valuable. Never swap them!

Incorrect: Ese diamante es preciso. (Unless it's for a drill). Correct: Ese diamante es precioso.

Another mistake involves the 'Es preciso que' construction. Learners often forget to use the subjunctive mood. Because 'preciso' in this context expresses a necessity or a wish for an outcome, the following verb must change. Saying 'Es preciso que tú *vienes*' is grammatically incorrect; it must be 'Es preciso que tú *vengas*'. This error is common because 'preciso' feels like a statement of fact, which usually triggers the indicative, but its function as a 'necessity' word overrides that.

Overusing 'Preciso': While 'preciso' is great, using it for every 'necessary' can sound overly formal. Use 'necesario' for casual daily needs.

Incorrect: ¿Es preciso comprar leche? (Too formal). Better: ¿Hace falta comprar leche?

Lastly, be careful with gender and number agreement. Since 'preciso' ends in '-o', it must change to 'precisa', 'precisos', or 'precisas'. A common mistake is leaving it in the masculine singular form when modifying a feminine noun: 'una medida preciso' is wrong; it must be 'una medida precisa'. This is especially important in technical writing where 'medida' (measurement) is a very common partner for this adjective.

Las instrucciones no fueron precisas.

Word Order: Avoid 'El preciso momento' unless you want to sound like a novelist. 'El momento preciso' is the standard spoken order.

No es preciso que grites, te oigo bien.

El corte debe ser preciso, ni un milímetro más.

Spanish offers several synonyms for 'preciso', each with its own flavor. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the most 'preciso' word for your context. While 'exacto' is the closest synonym, others like 'puntual', 'conciso', and 'necesario' cover different facets of its meaning. Using the right one shows a high level of fluency and attention to detail.

Preciso vs. Exacto: 'Exacto' is about truth and correctness. 'Preciso' is about detail and lack of variation. A clock is 'exacto' if it shows the right time; it is 'preciso' if it never loses a second.

Tu respuesta es exacta, pero necesito un detalle más preciso.

'Necesario' is the most common word for 'needed'. 'Preciso' is its more formal and urgent cousin. If you need water, it is 'necesario'. If a surgeon needs a specific tool to save a life, it is 'preciso'. Similarly, 'conciso' relates to the 'brief' aspect of 'preciso'. A 'resumen conciso' is short and to the point, much like a 'resumen preciso', but 'conciso' focuses more on the brevity than the accuracy.

Preciso vs. Justo: 'Justo' often means 'fair' or 'just', but in terms of measurement, it means 'tight' or 'exactly'. 'Llegué justo a tiempo' is more common than 'Llegué en el momento preciso'.

El ajuste de la pieza debe ser preciso.

In technical fields, you might encounter 'certero'. This word implies an accuracy that hits a target, like 'un disparo certero' (a precise/accurate shot). While 'preciso' could be used there, 'certero' adds a sense of success or effectiveness. For abstract clarity, 'nítido' (clear/sharp) is sometimes used, especially regarding images or memories, whereas 'preciso' is used for the facts within those memories.

Buscamos un término más apropiado y preciso.

Riguroso: This implies a precision that follows strict rules or logic. A 'estudio riguroso' is always 'preciso'.

Es preciso ser riguroso con el método científico.

El lenguaje matemático es el más preciso.

How Formal Is It?

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Wichtige Grammatik

Subjunctive with impersonal expressions

Adjective-Noun agreement

Adjective placement

Ser vs Estar

Adverb formation with -mente

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Beispiele nach Niveau

El reloj es muy preciso.

The clock is very precise.

Simple adjective use.

Llegaste en el momento preciso.

You arrived at the exact moment.

Noun + adjective.

Necesito un color preciso.

I need an exact color.

Gender agreement (masculine).

Es preciso comer bien.

It is necessary to eat well.

Impersonal 'es' + infinitive.

La respuesta no es precisa.

The answer is not precise.

Negative sentence.

Dame el dato preciso.

Give me the exact data.

Imperative + noun phrase.

Es una medida precisa.

It is a precise measurement.

Gender agreement (feminine).

El mapa es preciso.

The map is accurate.

Subject + verb + adjective.

El cirujano es muy preciso con sus manos.

The surgeon is very precise with his hands.

Adjective describing a person's skill.

No es preciso que vengas hoy.

It is not necessary for you to come today.

Subjunctive mood after 'es preciso que'.

Buscamos el lugar preciso en el mapa.

We are looking for the exact place on the map.

Use of 'el' with 'preciso'.

Sus palabras fueron muy precisas.

His words were very precise.

Plural agreement.

Es preciso comprar los boletos ahora.

It is necessary to buy the tickets now.

Necessity with infinitive.

El dibujo tiene detalles precisos.

The drawing has precise details.

Adjective modifying plural noun.

Necesitamos un informe más preciso.

We need a more precise report.

Comparative 'más'.

El tiempo preciso es de cinco minutos.

The exact time is five minutes.

Adjective modifying 'tiempo'.

Es preciso que el gobierno actúe rápido.

It is necessary that the government acts fast.

Subjunctive 'actúe'.

Precisamente eso es lo que quería decir.

Precisely that is what I wanted to say.

Adverbial use.

Para este experimento, es preciso un control total.

For this experiment, total control is necessary.

Adjective as 'necessary'.

El autor utiliza un lenguaje muy preciso.

The author uses a very precise language.

Describing literary style.

No tengo el número preciso de invitados.

I don't have the exact number of guests.

Quantitative precision.

Es preciso que guardes el secreto.

It is necessary that you keep the secret.

Subjunctive 'guardes'.

La balanza no es lo suficientemente precisa.

The scale is not precise enough.

Adverbial modification 'suficientemente'.

En el momento preciso, sonó el teléfono.

At the exact moment, the phone rang.

Prepositional phrase.

Se requiere un ajuste preciso de la maquinaria.

A precise adjustment of the machinery is required.

Technical terminology.

Es preciso que analicemos los riesgos.

It is necessary that we analyze the risks.

Subjunctive 'analicemos'.

El testigo dio una descripción precisa del sospechoso.

The witness gave a precise description of the suspect.

Formal narrative use.

La ciencia busca leyes precisas para el universo.

Science seeks precise laws for the universe.

Abstract precision.

No es preciso ser un genio para entenderlo.

It is not necessary to be a genius to understand it.

Rhetorical necessity.

El GPS proporciona coordenadas muy precisas.

The GPS provides very precise coordinates.

Technological context.

Es preciso que mantengas la calma en la reunión.

It is necessary that you keep calm in the meeting.

Subjunctive 'mantengas'.

El diagnóstico médico fue rápido y preciso.

The medical diagnosis was fast and precise.

Compound adjectives.

Su prosa es precisa, casi quirúrgica.

His prose is precise, almost surgical.

Metaphorical use in criticism.

Resulta preciso matizar esta afirmación.

It is necessary to qualify this statement.

Formal 'resulta' + adjective.

La precisión del reloj atómico es asombrosa.

The precision of the atomic clock is amazing.

Noun form 'precisión'.

Es preciso que la justicia sea imparcial.

It is necessary that justice be impartial.

Subjunctive 'sea'.

En el preciso instante de la explosión, todo cambió.

At the precise instant of the explosion, everything changed.

Pre-posed adjective for emphasis.

No es preciso que te justifiques tanto.

It is not necessary for you to justify yourself so much.

Subjunctive 'justifiques'.

El contrato debe ser preciso en sus términos.

The contract must be precise in its terms.

Legal context.

Buscamos un equilibrio preciso entre costo y calidad.

We seek a precise balance between cost and quality.

Business strategy context.

La ontología exige un uso preciso del lenguaje.

Ontology demands a precise use of language.

Academic/Philosophical context.

Es preciso que desentrañemos la verdad oculta.

It is necessary that we unravel the hidden truth.

Subjunctive 'desentrañemos'.

La obra carece de un enfoque preciso.

The work lacks a precise focus.

Critical analysis.

Fue preciso recurrir a medidas extremas.

It was necessary to resort to extreme measures.

Past tense necessity.

El mecanismo es tan preciso que no admite fallos.

The mechanism is so precise that it allows no failures.

Consecutive clause 'tan... que'.

Es preciso que la sociedad reflexione sobre su futuro.

It is necessary that society reflects on its future.

Subjunctive 'reflexione'.

El autor es preciso en su denuncia social.

The author is precise in his social denunciation.

Abstract precision in action.

No es preciso que abundes en detalles innecesarios.

It is not necessary for you to dwell on unnecessary details.

Subjunctive 'abundes'.

Häufige Kollokationen

momento preciso

dato preciso

reloj preciso

ajuste preciso

lenguaje preciso

informe preciso

lugar preciso

instrucciones precisas

medida precisa

corte preciso

Häufige Phrasen

Es preciso que...

En el momento preciso

Ser preciso

Dato preciso

No es preciso

Punto preciso

Lugar preciso

Detalle preciso

Ajuste preciso

Instrumento preciso

Wird oft verwechselt mit

preciso vs precioso

preciso vs necesitado

preciso vs exacto

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"En el momento preciso (At the right time)"

"Ser de un preciso (To be very meticulous - regional)"

"¡Preciso! (Just my luck! / Exactly! - regional)"

"Ni más ni menos que lo preciso (Exactly what is needed)"

"El preciso instante (The very moment)"

"Lo justo y preciso (Exactly enough)"

"Caer en el momento preciso (To happen at the perfect time)"

"Ser preciso como un reloj (To be very punctual/accurate)"

"Hablar lo preciso (To speak only what is necessary)"

"Tener el dato preciso (To have the exact info)"

Leicht verwechselbar

preciso vs precioso

preciso vs necesitado

preciso vs exacto

Satzmuster

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So verwendest du es

nuance

'Preciso' is more formal than 'exacto'.

warning

Never use 'preciso' to mean 'beautiful'.

Häufige Fehler

Forgot the subjunctive mood.
Confused 'precise' with 'precious'.
Gender error ('mapa' is masculine).
Agreement error (medida is feminine).
Redundant and incorrect grammar.

Tipps

Subjunctive Alert

Whenever you say 'Es preciso que...', the next verb must be in the subjunctive. It's a rule of necessity.

False Friend

Don't call your partner 'preciso' if you mean they are beautiful. Use 'precioso' instead!

Professional Tone

Use 'preciso' in business emails to sound more authoritative and clear about your requirements.

The 'C' Sound

In Spain, the 'c' is pronounced like 'th'. In Latin America, it's like an 's'. Both are correct!

Regional Use

In some countries, 'preciso' is used to mean 'just now'. Be aware of the local context.

Technical Accuracy

In science, 'preciso' refers to the consistency of results. Use it when talking about data.

Perfect Timing

The phrase 'el momento preciso' is very common for describing fate or luck.

Be Concise

A 'estilo preciso' is a goal for many writers. It means saying more with fewer words.

Gender Check

Always match 'preciso' with the noun. 'La información precisa' (feminine).

Preciso vs Necesario

Use 'preciso' for 'strictly required' and 'necesario' for 'needed'.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'precision' tool. It is 'preciso' because it is exact and it is 'preciso' because you need it for the job.

Wortherkunft

Latin 'praecisus'

Kultureller Kontext

Used heavily in academic and news contexts.

Used as an exclamation of coincidence or irony.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Gesprächseinstiege

"¿Cuál es el momento más preciso para empezar un negocio?"

"¿Crees que es preciso hablar más de un idioma hoy en día?"

"¿Eres una persona precisa con tus horarios?"

"¿Qué herramientas precisas usas en tu trabajo?"

"¿Es preciso que cambiemos nuestra forma de consumir?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Describe un momento preciso en tu vida que lo cambió todo.

¿Por qué es preciso ser honesto en una relación?

Escribe sobre un objeto preciso que poseas.

¿Es preciso viajar para conocer el mundo?

Reflexiona sobre la importancia de un lenguaje preciso.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

'Exacto' se refiere a la corrección de un dato, mientras que 'preciso' se refiere al nivel de detalle y minuciosidad. Un reloj puede ser exacto (dar la hora bien) y preciso (no fallar por milisegundos).

Se usa el subjuntivo siempre que utilices la estructura 'Es preciso que...' seguida de un sujeto diferente. Por ejemplo: 'Es preciso que tú estudies'.

No, 'preciso' nunca significa 'precious' en el sentido de valioso o bello. Para eso se usa 'precioso'.

Sí, es más formal que 'necesario' o 'exacto', especialmente cuando se usa para expresar necesidad en documentos o discursos.

Se dice 'precisamente'.

Normalmente se usa con el verbo 'ser' (es preciso). 'Estar' se usa raramente, solo si te refieres a un estado temporal de un objeto.

Se usa como una exclamación de ironía cuando algo sucede en el peor momento posible, similar a '¡Faltaba más!'.

Sí, especialmente en la frase 'en el momento preciso', pero para 'necesario' se prefiere 'hace falta' o 'necesito' en el habla común.

No tiene una abreviatura estándar en español.

El antónimo más común es 'impreciso' o 'vago'.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'reloj' and 'preciso'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Simple adjective-noun agreement.