inaccuracy

UK: ɪnˈækjərəsi | US: ɪnˈækjərəsi

Definition

  1. n. the quality or state of being incorrect or not exact

  2. n. an error or mistake in details

Structure
in <not>accuracy <precision>
Etymology

inaccuracy = in<not> + accuracy<precision>

  • in (prefix): From Latin in-, meaning "not" or "opposite of."
  • accuracy: From Latin accuratus (carefully done), derived from ad- (to) + cura (care). The modern sense of "precision" emerged in the 17th century.

Etymology Origin:
The word inaccuracy combines the negative prefix in- with accuracy, which originally meant "carefulness" in Latin. Over time, accuracy shifted to emphasize precision, and inaccuracy logically came to denote its absence—highlighting errors or lack of exactness.

Examples

  1. The report was criticized for its inaccuracy in financial data.

  2. Even a minor inaccuracy in measurements can ruin the experiment.

  3. The map’s inaccuracy led us to take the wrong route.

  4. She corrected the inaccuracy in his statement with verified facts.

  5. Journalists must avoid inaccuracy to maintain credibility.