In everyday conversations and writing, using precise language can make your message clear and impactful. Here are 20 expressions that can help you convey precision in your communication. Each expression includes a short meaning and an example sentence to illustrate its use.
1. Cut to the chase
Meaning: Get to the point.
Example: Let’s cut to the chase and discuss the plan.
2. On the dot
Meaning: Exactly on time.
Example: He arrived at 7:00 on the dot.
3. Spot on
Meaning: Exactly right.
Example: Your analysis was spot on.
4. Nail down
Meaning: Confirm details.
Example: We need to nail down the schedule today.
5. On the nose
Meaning: Exactly correct.
Example: His guess was on the nose.
6. Hit the nail on the head
Meaning: Identify exactly.
Example: She hit the nail on the head with her remark.
7. Pinpoint
Meaning: Locate exactly.
Example: The scientist pinpointed the issue precisely.
8. Fine-tune
Meaning: Make small adjustments.
Example: We need to fine-tune the presentation.
9. Zero in
Meaning: Focus closely.
Example: Let’s zero in on the main problem.
10. By the book
Meaning: Follow rules exactly.
Example: He does everything by the book.
11. In black and white
Meaning: Clear and simple.
Example: The rules are laid out in black and white.
12. To the letter
Meaning: Exactly as written.
Example: Follow the instructions to the letter.
13. Crystal clear
Meaning: Very clear.
Example: Her explanation was crystal clear.
14. On the money
Meaning: Exactly correct.
Example: His estimate was on the money.
15. Dead on
Meaning: Exactly right.
Example: Your prediction was dead on.
16. Sharp as a tack
Meaning: Very sharp.
Example: She is sharp as a tack in solving problems.
17. Down to the wire
Meaning: Until the last moment.
Example: We worked down to the wire to finish.
18. Get it down pat
Meaning: Perfectly memorized.
Example: He has the speech down pat.
19. Bang on
Meaning: Exactly right.
Example: His description was bang on.
20. In exact terms
Meaning: Very specifically.
Example: Explain your requirements in exact terms.
