Accurate

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈæk.jʊ.rət/

Definitions

• Free from errors or mistakes; precise or correct.
• Conforming to a standard or a true value; exact in measurement or representation.
• In statistics, a measure of how close a result is to the true value.

Usage Examples

• Her accurate description of the event helped authorities solve the case.
• The scientist made an accurate prediction about the results of the experiment.
• The clock was so accurate that it was used as a reference standard.

Etymology

From Latin "accuratus," the past participle of "accūrāre" meaning "to take care of, perform with precision." The term has been in use since the 17th century.

Synonyms

• Correct
• Precise
• Exact
• True
• Reliable

Antonyms

• Inaccurate
• Imprecise
• Erroneous
• Faulty
• Incorrect

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "accurate" may vary slightly depending on regional accents. In American English, it is typically pronounced with a stronger emphasis on the first syllable, whereas British English may pronounce it with a slightly softer 'a' sound.

Historical Usage

The word "accurate" has been in use since the early 17th century, originally referring to something done with care and precision. Over time, it has come to describe not only precision in actions but also correctness in facts, measurements, and statements.

Cultural Nuances

In different cultures, the concept of accuracy is highly valued in fields such as science, engineering, and mathematics, where precision is essential. In everyday life, the notion of accuracy also extends to honesty and truthfulness, where being accurate in one's statements is seen as a sign of integrity.

More Information

Being "accurate" goes beyond simple correctness; it suggests an ability to measure, observe, and reproduce outcomes that are in line with a standard or true value. Accuracy plays an important role in disciplines ranging from art (where perspective must be accurate) to technology (where data accuracy is key to functioning systems).