exactly
UK: ɪɡˈzæktli | US: ɪɡˈzæktli
adv. in a precise or accurate manner; without any error
adv. used to emphasize the truth or correctness of a statement
adv. just as specified; in every detail
The word "exactly" derives from the Latin exigere ("to demand, measure out"), combining ex- ("out") + agere ("to drive, do"). The root "exact" entered English via Middle French exact ("precise"), retaining its core meaning of precision. The suffix "-ly" (from Old English -līce) transforms adjectives into adverbs, emphasizing manner. Thus, "exactly" evolved to mean "in a rigorously precise way," reflecting its Latin roots in measurement and accuracy.
The clock struck exactly midnight.
She followed the instructions exactly to avoid mistakes.
"So you mean he left without warning?" "Exactly."
The replica was crafted exactly like the original.
The temperature must be maintained exactly at 20°C.