Accurate vs. Precise: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on November 18, 2023
Accurate means being correct or on target, while Precise means being exact, often regarding detail or measurement.
Key Differences
Accurate describes the closeness of a measurement to its true or accepted value. If you were to aim at a target, hitting the bullseye would mean your shot was Accurate.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
Precise, on the other hand, relates to the consistency of measurements or outcomes. In the context of the target, if all your arrows land close together, even if they miss the bullseye, your shots are Precise.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
It's possible for measurements to be Accurate without being Precise and vice versa. For example, if three weight scales give readings of 150.2, 150.3, and 150.1 pounds, they are Precise. However, if the actual weight is 160 pounds, they aren't Accurate.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
Conversely, if those scales read 159.8, 160.1, and 160.3 pounds, they are Accurate but not as Precise. The distinction between Accurate and Precise, therefore, is essential in various fields, especially in science and engineering, where both attributes might be crucial.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 17, 2023
Comparison Chart
Definition
Correctness relative to a standard or target.
Exactness in detail or measurement.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
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Importance
Reflects truthfulness or validity.
Reflects consistency or reproducibility.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
Example
Hitting the bullseye in darts.
All darts landing close together, regardless of position.
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Nov 17, 2023
Application
Aligns with actual value or fact.
Maintains a consistent pattern or detail.
Janet White
Nov 17, 2023
Accurate and Precise Definitions
Accurate
Correct in all details.
The replica was an Accurate representation of the original painting.
Harlon Moss
Oct 28, 2023
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Precise
Marked by exactness and accuracy of expression.
She gave a Precise description of the thief.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 28, 2023
Accurate
Free from errors.
The machine gave an Accurate measurement of the distance.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 28, 2023
Precise
Strictly distinguished from others.
He has Precise criteria for selecting candidates.
Sara Rehman
Oct 28, 2023
Accurate
Representing the truth.
The documentary provided an Accurate account of the events.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 28, 2023
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Accurate
On target or precise.
His prediction about the weather was surprisingly Accurate.
Sara Rehman
Oct 28, 2023
Precise
Distinct in its quality or nature.
The scientist made Precise adjustments to the equipment.
Harlon Moss
Oct 28, 2023
Precise
Clearly expressed or delineated; definite
The victim gave a precise description of the suspect.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
Deviating only slightly or within acceptable limits from a standard.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Precise
Exact, as in performance, execution, or amount; accurate or correct
A precise measurement.
A precise instrument.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
Capable of providing a correct reading or measurement
An accurate scale.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
Acting or performing with care and precision; meticulous
An accurate proofreader.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Precise
Distinct and correct in sound or meaning
Precise pronunciation.
Precise prose.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
Telling the truth or giving a true result; exact; not defective or faulty
An accurate calculator
An accurate measure
Accurate knowledge
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Oct 13, 2023
Precise
Conforming strictly to rule or proper form
"The setting up of this Maypole was a lamentable spectacle to the precise separatists that lived at New Plymouth" (Thomas Morton).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
Deviating only slightly or within acceptable limits.
My horoscopes I read last week were surprisingly accurate.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Precise
Consistent, clustered close together, agreeing with each other this does not mean that they cluster near the true, correct, or accurate value
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
In exact or careful conformity to truth, or to some standard of requirement, the result of care or pains; free from failure, error, or defect; exact; as, an accurate calculator; an accurate measure; accurate expression, knowledge, etc.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
Precisely fixed; executed with care; careful.
Those conceive the celestial bodies have more accurate influences upon these things below.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
Conforming exactly or almost exactly to fact or to a standard or performing with total accuracy;
An accurate reproduction
The accounting was accurate
Accurate measurements
An accurate scale
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Precise
Having determinate limitations; exactly or sharply defined or stated; definite; exact; nice; not vague or equivocal; as, precise rules of morality.
The law in this point is not precise.
For the hour preciseExacts our parting hence.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
(of ideas, images, representations, expressions) characterized by perfect conformity to fact or truth ; strictly correct;
A precise image
A precise measurement
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Precise
Strictly adhering or conforming to rule; very nice or exact; punctilious in conduct or ceremony; formal; ceremonious.
He was ever precise in promise-keeping.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Accurate
Conforming exactly to fact.
Her testimony was Accurate, without any embellishments.
Janet White
Oct 28, 2023
Precise
Sharply exact or accurate or delimited;
A precise mind
Specified a precise amount
Arrived at the precise moment
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Precise
(of ideas, images, representations, expressions) characterized by perfect conformity to fact or truth ; strictly correct;
A precise image
A precise measurement
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
FAQs
In scientific experiments, which is more important, being Accurate or Precise?
Both can be crucial, but the importance varies based on the experiment's goals and context.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
How do you improve accuracy?
Improve accuracy by calibrating equipment, using reliable sources, and checking against known standards.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 17, 2023
Can a measurement be both Accurate and Precise?
Yes, a measurement can be both on target (Accurate) and consistently so (Precise).
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
Can a tool be Precise but not Accurate?
Yes, a tool can consistently give similar results (Precise) that are not correct (not Accurate).
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
How do industries ensure both accuracy and precision in production?
Industries employ quality control, regular equipment calibration, and standardized procedures.
Sara Rehman
Nov 17, 2023
In which professions is precision more valued than accuracy?
In professions like machining or watchmaking, precision (consistent detail) may be more valued than mere correctness.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 17, 2023
How do dictionaries define Accurate and Precise?
Dictionaries typically define Accurate as "correct" and Precise as "exact or specific."
Harlon Moss
Nov 17, 2023
How is Accurate different from Precise?
Accurate relates to correctness, while Precise relates to exactness and detail.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
Is accuracy about quality and precision about quantity?
Not necessarily. Accurate refers to correctness, while Precise refers to exactness, regardless of quality or quantity.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
Can a statement be considered Accurate but not Precise?
Yes, a statement can be generally correct (Accurate) without going into exact details (not Precise).
Janet White
Nov 17, 2023
Why are both accuracy and precision important in scientific research?
In research, accuracy ensures validity, and precision ensures reproducibility, both crucial for reliable results.
Sara Rehman
Nov 17, 2023
How do GPS devices ensure accuracy and precision?
GPS devices use signals from multiple satellites, error correction techniques, and regular updates.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
Why do artists need to be both Accurate and Precise?
Artists may need accuracy for realistic representation and precision for consistent style or technique.
Harlon Moss
Nov 17, 2023
Is a bullseye hit both Accurate and Precise?
A single bullseye hit is Accurate. If multiple shots consistently hit the bullseye, they are also Precise.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 17, 2023
Can human perceptions be both Accurate and Precise?
Human perceptions can vary, but training and experience can improve both accuracy and precision.
Harlon Moss
Nov 17, 2023
How can one check the accuracy and precision of an instrument?
Check accuracy against a known standard and precision by taking repeated measurements to see consistency.
Janet White
Nov 17, 2023
How can one ensure precision?
Ensure precision by maintaining consistent methods, regularly calibrating tools, and reducing variables.
Janet White
Nov 17, 2023
In what scenarios is accuracy more important than precision?
In medical diagnoses or navigation, accuracy (being correct) might be more vital than precision.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 17, 2023
Is there a tool to measure both accuracy and precision?
In many fields, tools like statistical software can help evaluate both accuracy and precision of data.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 17, 2023
Are Accurate and Precise synonymous?
No, while related, Accurate means "correct," and Precise means "exact or detailed."
Janet White
Nov 17, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
