When you're describing something with exactness, like a precise measurement or a punctual arrival, you'll want to use preciso. It's also used to describe a person who is meticulous and accurate in their work or habits. Think of it as meaning 'exact' or 'accurate'.
Fun Fact
The English word 'precise' also comes from the same Latin root 'praecisus'.
Grammar to Know
Like many Italian adjectives, 'preciso' changes its ending to agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. For masculine singular, it's 'preciso'; for feminine singular, 'precisa'; for masculine plural, 'precisi'; and for feminine plural, 'precise'.
Un orologio preciso (A precise watch), Una risposta precisa (A precise answer), Dettagli precisi (Precise details), Informazioni precise (Precise information).
'Preciso' can be used to describe people, meaning exact or punctual.
Lui è sempre molto preciso. (He is always very precise/punctual.)
It can be used to describe objects or abstract concepts, meaning exact, accurate, or specific.
Ho bisogno di un'informazione precisa. (I need precise/specific information.)
When used adverbially, 'preciso' often means 'exactly' or 'precisely', though the adverb 'precisamente' is more common in this context.
Il treno arriva preciso alle dieci. (The train arrives exactly at ten.)
It can be used in expressions like 'essere preciso come un orologio', meaning 'to be as precise/regular as clockwork'.
Il suo lavoro è preciso come un orologio. (His work is as precise as clockwork.)
Examples by Level
Sii più preciso nelle tue istruzioni, per favore.
Be more precise in your instructions, please.
Ha descritto l'evento con dettagli molto precisi.
He described the event with very precise details.
L'orologio è preciso al secondo.
The watch is precise to the second.
La sua analisi della situazione è stata estremamente precisa.
His analysis of the situation was extremely precise.
Abbiamo bisogno di misurazioni precise per questo esperimento.
We need precise measurements for this experiment.
È importante essere precisi quando si compila questo modulo.
It's important to be precise when filling out this form.
La previsione del tempo era incredibilmente precisa.
The weather forecast was incredibly precise.
Per essere precisi, l'appuntamento è alle 14:30 e non alle 14:00.
To be precise, the appointment is at 2:30 PM and not 2:00 PM.
Word Origin
Latin
Original meaning: cut short, curtailed, exact
Indo-EuropeanCultural Context
In Italy, being 'preciso' is often highly valued, especially in professional settings or when making plans. It can be seen as a sign of respect and reliability. While there's a stereotype of Italians being more relaxed about time, in many situations, punctuality and exactness are expected.
Test Yourself 6 questions
Choose the best English translation for 'preciso'.
'Preciso' means precise or exact.
Which word is an antonym (opposite) of 'preciso'?
If something is not precise, it can be vague.
Complete the sentence: 'L'informazione non è molto ___.'
The sentence means 'The information is not very precise.'
If something is 'preciso', it means it is unclear.
'Preciso' means exact and clear, not unclear.
You can use 'preciso' to describe an accurate clock.
An accurate clock is a precise clock.
The word 'preciso' can only describe objects, not people.
You can describe a person as 'preciso' if they are meticulous or exact in their actions.
/ 6 correct
Perfect score!
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More academic words
accertare
B2To verify, confirm, or ascertain.
acclarato
C1Clearly established, verified, or confirmed
affermare
B1To state as a fact or assert.
ambiguo
C1Open to more than one interpretation; unclear.
analisi
B1Detailed examination of the elements of something.
analizzare
B1To examine methodically and in detail.
analogia
C1A comparison between two things for explanation
antitesi
C1A person or thing that is the direct opposite
approccio
B1A way of dealing with a situation or problem.
approfondire
B2To study or examine in greater detail.
