"to be more precise" vs "to be more precisely"

Question

"to be more precise" vs "to be more precisely"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'To be more precise' is the more common and idiomatic phrase, used to introduce a more accurate or detailed statement. 'To be more precisely' is less common and may sound awkward to native speakers, but it can be used in specific situations where 'precisely' is needed as an adverb.

Last Updated: March 30, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that the speaker is going to provide a more accurate or detailed explanation or clarification.

Examples:

To be more precise, the deadline is next Friday, not this Friday.
To be more precise, the cost is $50, not $45.
To be more precise, the issue lies in the software, not the hardware.

Alternatives:

To be more accurate
To be more specific
To clarify
In other words
Put simply

This phrase can be used when 'precisely' is needed as an adverb to modify a verb or adjective for added accuracy.

Examples:

To be more precisely clear, the instructions are as follows.
To be more precisely accurate, the measurements need to be double-checked.
To be more precisely defined, the terms of the contract are outlined here.

Alternatives:

To be more precise
To be more accurate
To be more specific
In other words
Put simply

Answer 1

to be more precise

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to introduce a more accurate or detailed statement.

Answer 2

to be more precisely

This phrase is correct but less common in English. It can be used in specific situations where 'precisely' is needed as an adverb.

"to be more precise" vs "to be more precisely"

to be more precise

to be more precisely

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