What is exact? Pronunciation and usage in English

exact means . Learn how to pronounce and use exact through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of exact

exactadjective

/ɪɡˈzakt//ɛɡˈzakt/
Definition & pronunciation of exact

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "exact." It's a tricky one for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ɪɡˈækt/ (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet)

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. ɪɡ (ee-g): This part sounds like the "ee" in "see" followed by a quick "g" sound. Think of it as a short, low "ee."

  2. ˈækt (akt): This is the tricky part.

    • ˈ (This symbol indicates the primary stress in the word)
    • æ (as in "cat"): This is a short, open "a" sound, like in the word "cat" or "bat".
    • kt (like "act"): A quick "kt" sound.

Putting it together:

It's roughly pronounced like "ee-gakt" (but with a shortened 'a' sound).

Tips for getting it right:

  • Short "i" sound: Focus on the short "i" in "exact" (like in "bit").
  • The "a" sound: The "a" in "akt" is not like the "a" in "cat." It's more like the "a" in "hot".
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "exact" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/exact/ – This website has pronunciations from native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce exact" on YouTube – you'll find many videos.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
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Usage and examples with the word exact in English

Let's break down how to use the word "exact" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances, so understanding those is key.

1. As an Adjective (Meaning Precise or Accurate):

This is the most common use of "exact." It means completely correct, without any deviation.

  • Examples:
    • "I need the exact date of the meeting." (You need the precise, specific date.)
    • "The scientist meticulously measured the results to ensure exact figures." (To guarantee accurate numbers.)
    • “The statue is an exact replica of the original.” (A perfect copy.)
    • "Please provide the exact amount of money you need." (No rounding or approximations.)

2. As an Adjective (Meaning Literal or Exact):

Sometimes "exact" is used to mean following something literally, without interpretation or embellishment.

  • Examples:
    • "He gave the exact words his father had said." (He repeated the words verbatim.)
    • “The poem is an exact translation of the original French.” (It's not a paraphrased version.)

3. As a Noun (Meaning a Specific Detail or Element):

Less common, but it can be used as a noun, referring to a particular detail.

  • Examples:
    • “The exact cause of the accident is still unknown.” (The specific reason.)
    • “Let’s get to the exact details of the agreement.” (The precise terms.)

4. Phrases with "Exact":

  • Exact match: (Referring to something that is identical to another.) “The software produced an exact match of the original document.”
  • Exact change: (The correct amount of money for a transaction.) "Please give me the exact change."
  • Exact science: (A field of study that relies heavily on precise measurements and calculations – often referring to fields like physics or mathematics.)

Tips for Using "Exact" Correctly:

  • Think about precision: "Exact" always implies a high degree of accuracy and detail.
  • Contrast with "approximate": “Exact” is the opposite of “approximate” (meaning roughly or nearly).
  • Pay attention to context: The meaning can shift slightly depending on the sentence.

Here’s a table summarizing the different ways to use “exact”:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Adjective Precise, accurate “The measurement was exact.”
Adjective Literal, verbatim “He gave the exact quote.”
Noun Specific detail “The exact time is 3:15 PM.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

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  • Can you give me an example sentence where you're thinking of using "exact"?

Synonyms for the word exact

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