What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
literality
Example
The statement was taken with literality, without any room for interpretation. [literality: noun]
Example
He always speaks with literality, never using metaphors or figures of speech. [literality: adverb]
exactness
Example
The exactness of the measurements ensured that the building was constructed to the right specifications. [exactness: noun]
Example
She described the scene with such exactness that it felt like we were there. [exactness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exactness is more commonly used than literality in everyday language. Exactness is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts and situations, while literality is more specialized and limited to specific fields or disciplines.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between literality and exactness?
Both literality and exactness are formal terms that are more likely to be used in academic, technical, or professional contexts than in casual or informal conversations.