What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thorough
Example
The detective conducted a thorough investigation of the crime scene. [thorough: adjective]
Example
She went through the report thoroughly to ensure there were no errors. [thoroughly: adverb]
exact
Example
The exact weight of the object was 2.5 kilograms. [exact: adjective]
Example
He made an exact replica of the antique vase. [exact: adjective]
Example
What is the exact time of the meeting? [exact: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exact is more commonly used than thorough in everyday language. Exact is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while thorough is less common and often used in specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between thorough and exact?
Both thorough and exact can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, exact may be perceived as more formal due to its association with precise measurements and calculations.
