What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
definite
Example
I have a definite plan for the weekend. [definite: adjective]
Example
The teacher gave a definite answer to the student's question. [definite: adjective]
Example
The definite article 'the' is used to refer to a specific noun. [definite: noun]
precise
Example
The recipe requires precise measurements of ingredients. [precise: adjective]
Example
The scientist made a precise calculation of the data. [precise: adjective]
Example
The tour guide gave a precise description of the historical site. [precise: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Definite is more commonly used than precise in everyday language. Definite is a common word that covers a wide range of contexts, while precise is more technical and specific.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between definite and precise?
Precise is generally considered more formal than definite. It is often used in technical or scientific writing, while definite can be used in both formal and informal contexts.