What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
explicit
Example
The instructions were explicit and easy to follow. [explicit: adjective]
Example
She made it explicit that she did not want to be disturbed. [explicit: adjective]
precise
Example
The measurements need to be precise for the experiment to work. [precise: adjective]
Example
He gave a precise description of the suspect's appearance. [precise: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precise is more commonly used than explicit in everyday language. Precise is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while explicit is more specific and often used in formal or technical language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between explicit and precise?
Both explicit and precise can be used in formal or technical language. However, explicit can have negative connotations if used inappropriately, while precise is generally seen as a positive attribute and is often used in professional or academic settings.
