What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
precisive
Example
The precisive language used in the legal document left no room for interpretation. [precisive: adjective]
Example
The surgeon used a precisive scalpel to make the incision. [precisive: adjective]
precise
Example
The precise measurement of the ingredients is crucial for the recipe to turn out well. [precise: adjective]
Example
The accountant was very precise in her calculations, ensuring there were no errors. [precise: adjective]
Example
The directions to the house were precise and easy to follow. [precise: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precise is more commonly used than precisive in everyday language. Precise is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while precisive is less common and is often used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between precisive and precise?
Precisive has a more formal and technical connotation than precise. While precise can be used in both formal and informal contexts, precisive is typically associated with a more formal tone.