What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
punctually
Example
The train arrived punctually at 9 am. [punctually: adverb]
Example
Please make sure to be punctual for the interview. [punctual: adjective]
exactly
Example
The recipe calls for exactly two cups of flour. [exactly: adverb]
Example
His explanation of the problem was exactly what I needed to understand it. [exactly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exactly is more commonly used than punctually in everyday language. Exactly is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while punctually is less common and refers specifically to being on time or completing something within a designated timeframe.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between punctually and exactly?
Both punctually and exactly are considered formal words, but punctually may be slightly more formal due to its association with time and schedules.
