Words / C1

impr-i-SYS/ˌɪmprɪˈsaɪs/

Imprecise means not exact or accurately expressed: imprecise wording, an imprecise figure. Precise (already in the dictionary) sits opposite; vague (already in the dictionary) is the close twin. “About two hundred” is talk, not an occupancy cap.

Meaning

Not exact or accurately expressed.

Examples

• “An imprecise occupancy line is still not a cap; write the figure.”
• “Vague is already in this course. Approximate is milder. About is a corridor. A cap is a certificate. Put the number on the paper; save about for the café.”

Good to know

Not exact. Opposite: precise (already in the dictionary). “About” ≠ a cap.

Near in meaning

vague, inexact, approximate

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