: the degree of refinement with which an operation is performed or a measurement stated compare accuracysense 2b
b
: the accuracy (as in binary or decimal places) with which a number can be represented usually expressed in terms of the number of computer words available for representation
double precision arithmetic permits the representation of an expression by two computer words
: adapted for extremely accurate measurement or operation
2
: held to low tolerance in manufacture
3
: marked by precision of execution
Did you know?
Many of us often use precision and accuracy as synonyms, but not scientists and engineers. For them, accuracy describes a particular measurement—that is, how close it is to the truth. But precision describes a measurement system—that is, how good it is at giving the same result every time it measures the same thing. This may be why even nonscientists now often speak of "precision instruments" for measuring, "precision landings" made by airplanes, "precision drilling" for natural gas, and so on.
Noun I admire the precision of her work. the company that measures TV ratings prides itself on the precision of its calculations Adjective The airplane made a precision approach for landing.
Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
If Herbert displayed his precision on the ball to Allen and arm strength on the throw to Carter, his athleticism and improvisational gifts were demonstrated on an 18-yard touchdown pass to Gerald Everett in the third quarter. Dylan Hernández, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2022 The offense did not have its usual precision and power for three quarters. Nathan Baird, cleveland, 6 Sep. 2022 Afterwards, the judges praised Donna for her precision during the lip sync and praised her for having fun during the performance. Dave Quinn, Peoplemag, 2 Sep. 2022 The first Vandercook printing presses appeared in 1909 and became known for their precision and consistency. Briana Miller | For The Oregonian/oregonlive, oregonlive, 2 Sep. 2022 Whether on the court or in the depths of the sea, precision is key—and endurance indispensable. Leena Kim, Town & Country, 28 Aug. 2022 While precision, performance and excellence are vital in offshore yacht racing and in watchmaking, protecting our environment is also key. Roberta Naas, Forbes, 16 Aug. 2022 The two would watch clips of Bird together, enchanted by his precision and his fire. Globe Staff, BostonGlobe.com, 12 July 2022 Nick Cimity on my team set the tone for this organization with his precision and perfectionism and the Vienna Film Orchestra team, including Bernd Mazaag our recording engineer, followed through. Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 27 June 2022
Adjective
Tracking foot traffic and transaction volume data — a pillar of any precision retail program — helps stores avoid over- and understaffing, ensuring associates are always on hand to help customers in need. Bjoern Petersen, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2022 And the composite in the aluminum-composite rear axle links was flexible enough to give the rear axle a disturbing springy, non-precision feel in some dynamic situations. Gary Witzenburg, Car and Driver, 7 July 2021 His Merrill Lynch account contains shares of companies like Sarepta Therapeutics, a maker of precision genetic medicines that treat rare neuromuscular and central nervous system diseases.New York Times, 20 Mar. 2021 But after decades of offshoring, finding U.S. manufacturing facilities capable of producing precision medical devices isn't easy. David Z. Morris, Fortune, 21 Feb. 2021 The invention challenge drew numerous tinkerers with no experience making precision medical devices for use on the critically ill.Washington Post, 14 Aug. 2020 See More