A2adverb 1K

Exactly

🇬🇧 UK /["/ɪɡˈzæktli/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ɪɡˈzæktli/"]/

Meaning of Exactly

used to emphasize that something is correct in every way or in every detail

In simple words: In a precise or accurate manner.

Exactly in a sentence

• The instructions say to follow the recipe exactly for the best results.
• She arrived exactly on time for the meeting.
• I don't know exactly what he meant by that comment.
• The puzzle pieces fit together exactly as I imagined they would.
• Can you tell me exactly when the concert starts?
• It's not exactly what I was looking for, but it will do.

How to use Exactly

Use 'exactly' to emphasize precision or correctness. It's suitable for both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in overly casual conversations where a simpler term may suffice.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'exactly' as 'egg-zactly' — picture cracking an egg perfectly without any shell.

Related words

Collocations with Exactly

• exactly right
• exactly what
• exactly the same
• exactly how
• know exactly

Synonyms for Exactly

• precisely

Opposites of Exactly

• approximately
• roughly

Common mistakes with Exactly

• 'Exactly' is often confused with 'correctly' — they have different nuances.
• Learners sometimes use 'exact' instead of 'exactly' in adverbial contexts.
• Misplaced in sentences, such as using it at the beginning instead of near the verb.

Frequently asked questions about Exactly

What does Exactly mean?

In a precise or accurate manner.

What is the definition of Exactly?

used to emphasize that something is correct in every way or in every detail

How do you use Exactly in a sentence?

The instructions say to follow the recipe exactly for the best results.

Can you give another example of Exactly?

She arrived exactly on time for the meeting.

What are synonyms for Exactly?

Common alternatives include precisely.

What is the opposite of Exactly?

Opposite meanings include approximately, roughly.

What words go with Exactly?

It commonly pairs with exactly right, exactly what, exactly the same, exactly how, know exactly.

What are common mistakes when using Exactly?

'Exactly' is often confused with 'correctly' — they have different nuances. Learners sometimes use 'exact' instead of 'exactly' in adverbial contexts. Misplaced in sentences, such as using it at the beginning instead of near the verb.

How do you pronounce Exactly?

US: /["/ɪɡˈzæktli/"]/, UK: /["/ɪɡˈzæktli/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Exactly?

Use 'exactly' to emphasize precision or correctness. It's suitable for both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in overly casual conversations where a simpler term may suffice.

What CEFR level is Exactly?

"Exactly" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.