Imprecise

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Imprecise

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

adjective

Pronunciation

im-prih-SYS  /ɪmprɪˈsʌɪs/

Definition

Lacking exactness or precision; not clearly or accurately expressed; vague.

Plain meaning

Imprecise means not exact or specific enough — lacking the precision needed to be clear or accurate. An imprecise measurement may be close but not exact enough for scientific use. An imprecise instruction leaves too much room for interpretation. Imprecise language is language that could mean several things and does not specify exactly which. The opposite of imprecise is precise — carefully exact and accurate.

Register

Neutral to formal. Imprecise is used across registers. In scientific and technical contexts it implies a significant failing. In everyday contexts it is a milder criticism — an imprecise answer is one that leaves too much uncertain. The word is gentler than vague, which implies more deliberate or problematic uncertainty.