What is exactly? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of exactly

exactlyadverb

/ɪɡˈzak(t)li//ɛɡˈzak(t)li/
Definition & pronunciation of exactly

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

1. Syllables:

"Exactly" is typically pronounced in two syllables: ex-ACT-ly

2. Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • "Ex": This sounds like "eks" - like the beginning of "example." It's a short, crisp "eks."

  • "ACT": This is the trickiest part. It's pronounced like "ack," but with a slightly emphasized "t" sound at the end. Think of the word "attack" but without the "t" at the end. It's a quick, sharp syllable.

  • "ly": This is pronounced like "lee."

3. Putting it Together:

So, it's roughly: eks-ACK-lee

4. Tips & Nuances:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable ("ACK"). This is what makes it different from "ex-act."

  • Don't add an extra "t" sound at the end: Many people (especially non-native speakers) tend to add a slight "t" sound to the end of “exactly”. Don’t do this! “Exactly” should sound like “eks-ACK-lee”.

  • Listen to examples: The best way to get it right is to hear it pronounced. Here are some resources:

    • Google Translate: Type "exactly" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon - it will pronounce it.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/exactly/ – This website offers audio pronunciations from native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce exactly" – you’ll find many videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

To summarize, focus on "eks-ACK-lee" and remember to keep the "t" sound short and sharp in the "ACK" syllable.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more examples of words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word exactly in English

Let's break down how to use "exactly" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a breakdown of its common uses, with examples:

1. To Indicate Complete Agreement or Precision:

  • Most Common Use: This is where you use "exactly" to show you completely agree with something someone said.
    • Example: "Is that blue?" "Exactly!" (You're confirming it is blue and are pleased with the answer.)
    • Example: "I need 10 apples." "Exactly, here you go." (You're confirming the quantity.)
    • Example: "The temperature is 25 degrees Celsius." "Exactly, that's what the thermometer read."

2. To Indicate Precise Measurement or Quantity:

  • Describing a quantity: "Exactly" is used to state a precise amount.
    • Example: “The book weighs exactly 500 grams.”
    • Example: “She ran exactly 10 kilometers.”

3. To Emphasize Similarity or Correspondence:

  • Highlighting a perfect match: It can emphasize that two things are identical.
    • Example: "That's the same book I was talking about, exactly." (Meaning it’s the very same book.)
    • Example: "This picture is exactly like the one in the magazine." (Perfect likeness)

4. As an Interjection (Short, emphatic response):

  • Sometimes, "exactly" is used as a short, immediate response to reinforce a point. It's a bit more informal.
    • Example: "I want a pizza with pepperoni and mushrooms." "Exactly!" (A quick, enthusiastic agreement.)

Important Nuances & Considerations:

  • Formal vs. Informal: "Exactly" is generally considered more formal than "right" or "yes." While it’s perfectly acceptable in most situations, using "right" or "yes" might feel more natural in casual conversation.

  • Overuse: Be careful not to overuse "exactly." Too much repetition can make your speech sound stilted.

  • Alternatives: Depending on the context, you might be able to use words like:

    • Precisely: (More formal, emphasizes accuracy) – “The clock struck exactly 3:00.”
    • Precisely: (for measurement) - “The star is exactly 10 light-years away.”
    • Right: (More casual agreement) – “Are you coming?” “Right!”
    • Yep: (Very informal) – “Is it raining?” “Yep!”

Let's test your understanding! Can you create a sentence using "exactly" in one of the ways described above?

Synonyms for the word exactly

Idioms of the word exactly

not exactly
used when you are saying the opposite of what you really mean
  • He wasn't exactly pleased to see us—in fact he refused to open the door.
  • It's not exactly beautiful, is it? (= it's ugly)
used when you are correcting something that somebody has said
  • ‘So he told you you'd got the job?’ ‘Not exactly, but he said they were impressed with me.’

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