precisely
UK: prɪˈsaɪsli | US: prɪˈsaɪsli
adv. in an exact and accurate manner
adv. used to emphasize the accuracy of a statement
adv. with no possibility of error
The word "precisely" originates from the Latin praecisus (past participle of praecidere, meaning "to cut off" or "to shorten"). The morpheme "pre-" (before) combines with "cise" (cut), reflecting the idea of trimming away excess to achieve exactness. The suffix "-ly" converts the adjective "precise" into an adverb, emphasizing the manner of action. Over time, "precisely" evolved to denote accuracy and exactness, retaining its logical connection to the concept of cutting away ambiguity.
She arrived precisely at 3:00 PM.
The measurements must be taken precisely to ensure success.
"Are you sure?" "Precisely," he replied.
The machine cuts the fabric precisely along the marked lines.
His instructions were followed precisely, leaving no room for error.