accuracy
B2Formal / Neutral
Definition
Meaning
The quality or state of being correct, precise, or exact, with freedom from error.
The degree to which a result, measurement, or description conforms to a true value or standard; also the ability to perform or execute something precisely.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a non-count noun, but can be used countably in technical contexts (e.g., 'different accuracies'). Focuses on the result or quality of being error-free, as opposed to 'precision,' which can refer to the fineness of measurement or the repeatability of results.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Identical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally common and similarly distributed across contexts in both UK and US English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
accuracy of + noun (the accuracy of the data)accuracy in + noun/gerund (accuracy in reporting)with accuracy (he throws the ball with great accuracy)accuracy + that-clause (the accuracy that the system provides)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(to hit/be) spot on (related in meaning, but not containing the word 'accuracy')”
- “nail it (verb phrase implying accuracy)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Crucial for data analysis, forecasting, and financial reporting. E.g., 'The accuracy of our sales projections will determine next year's budget.'
Academic
Fundamental in research methodology and reporting results. E.g., 'Peer review aims to verify the accuracy of the findings.'
Everyday
Used when discussing directions, information, or performance. E.g., 'I can't vouch for the accuracy of that news story.'
Technical
A key metric in engineering, computing, and sciences. E.g., 'The algorithm's accuracy rate was 99.7%.'
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- 'The device is designed to accurately measure pressure.' (adverb form)
American English
- 'We need to accurately forecast the quarterly results.' (adverb form)
adverb
British English
- 'He predicted the outcome accurately.'
American English
- 'The machine replicates the movements accurately.'
adjective
British English
- 'She gave an accurate description of the suspect.'
American English
- 'The report needs to be factually accurate.'
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The map's accuracy helped us find the park.
- He checked the spelling for accuracy.
- The journalist is known for the accuracy of her reports.
- We cannot guarantee the accuracy of these figures.
- The study questioned the historical accuracy of the documentary.
- The sniper was prized for his pinpoint accuracy under pressure.
- Any compromise in the data's accuracy would invalidate the entire model.
- The translation was lauded not only for its fluency but also for its philological accuracy.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine an ACCURATE arrow hitting the centre (C) of a target, with a CURVE (CUR) representing the perfect path. Accuracy = AC + CUR + ACY.
Conceptual Metaphor
ACCURACY IS A TARGET HIT (e.g., 'hit the mark', 'spot on', 'bullseye'). ACCURACY IS CLOSENESS (e.g., 'close to the truth').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing with 'аккуратность' (which leans more towards neatness, tidiness, or punctuality).
- The Russian 'точность' is the closest equivalent, covering both 'accuracy' and 'precision'. Context is key for correct translation.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'accuracy' to mean 'speed' (e.g., 'He typed with great accuracy' vs. 'He typed with great speed').
- Confusing 'accuracy' (correctness) with 'precision' (fineness of detail or repeatability, e.g., a precise but inaccurate clock).
Practice
Quiz
In a technical context, which phrase best contrasts with 'high accuracy'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Primarily uncountable. You would say 'great accuracy,' not 'many accuracies.' However, in technical fields (e.g., statistics, engineering), it can be used countably to refer to different types or levels of accuracy, as in 'The two sensors have different accuracies.'
In technical use, 'accuracy' refers to closeness to a true value, while 'precision' refers to the fineness of measurement or the consistency/repeatability of results. A measurement can be precise (consistent) but inaccurate (far from the truth). In general use, they are often used interchangeably.
The adjective is 'accurate.' Example: 'an accurate description.' The adverb is 'accurately.'
Yes, it can describe a person's characteristic or skill. E.g., 'She is known for her accuracy as a translator' or 'His accuracy as a goalkeeper is unmatched.'
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Critical Thinking
C1 · 49 words · Vocabulary for structured logical reasoning and analysis.
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