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UK//nɒt ɪɡˈzæktli//US//nɑt ɪɡˈzæktli//

Meaning of Not exactly

Used to indicate that something is close to true but not totally correct.

In simple words: Not completely true or accurate.

Not exactly in a sentence

  • The answer was not exactly what I expected.
  • She said it was easy, but not exactly a walk in the park.
  • The plan is not exactly perfect but it has potential.
  • He's not exactly known for his punctuality.
  • It's not exactly a secret that they are dating.

How to use Not exactly

Used to express disagreement or to soften criticism. It is more polite than saying 'wrong'. Avoid in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of saying 'not quite' but with a little more emphasis.

Related words

Collocations with Not exactly

  • not exactly correct
  • not exactly clear
  • not exactly true
  • not exactly what I mean
  • not exactly a solution

Synonyms for Not exactly

Common mistakes with Not exactly

  • Confusing with 'not really', which is more casual.
  • 'Not exactly' is sometimes overused in explanations.
  • Learners may use it in formal contexts where a more definitive phrase is needed.

Compare Not exactly with Kind of, Somewhat, Approximately

Not exactly appears in

Not exactly in other languages

More chunks like Not exactly

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Frequently asked questions about Not exactly

What does Not exactly mean?

Not completely true or accurate.

What is the definition of Not exactly?

Used to indicate that something is close to true but not totally correct.

How do you use Not exactly in a sentence?

The answer was not exactly what I expected.

Can you give another example of Not exactly?

She said it was easy, but not exactly a walk in the park.

What are synonyms for Not exactly?

Common alternatives include not quite, sort of, kind of, somewhat, approximately.

What words go with Not exactly?

It commonly pairs with not exactly correct, not exactly clear, not exactly true, not exactly what I mean, not exactly a solution.

What are common mistakes when using Not exactly?

Confusing with 'not really', which is more casual. 'Not exactly' is sometimes overused in explanations. Learners may use it in formal contexts where a more definitive phrase is needed.

How do you pronounce Not exactly?

US: //nɑt ɪɡˈzæktli//, UK: //nɒt ɪɡˈzæktli//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Not exactly?

Used to express disagreement or to soften criticism. It is more polite than saying 'wrong'. Avoid in very formal writing.