precision
UK: prɪˈsɪʒ.ən | US: prɪˈsɪʒ.ən
n. the quality of being exact, accurate, or clearly defined
n. (technical) the degree to which a measurement, calculation, or specification can be consistently reproduced
n. (dated) the act of separating or distinguishing
The word "precision" originates from Latin praecisionem (a cutting off), derived from praecidere (to cut off, shorten). The morpheme pre- (before) combines with -cis- (cut), reflecting the idea of "cutting away" unnecessary parts to achieve exactness. The suffix -ion nominalizes the action, evolving into its modern sense of meticulous accuracy. This progression mirrors the refinement process—trimming excess to reach clarity.
The surgeon performed the operation with remarkable precision.
Scientific instruments must deliver high precision to ensure valid results.
His speech lacked precision, leaving the audience confused.
The watchmaker adjusted the gears to achieve perfect precision.
Precision in language avoids misunderstandings.