exact
Definitions
Correct in every detail; precise and accurate
精确的，准确的，确切的
To demand and obtain something by force or authority
强索，强求；迫使付出
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedex- (out) + agere/actus (drive, weigh) = 'to drive out, weigh out.' A Roman tax collector exacted payment by driving it out of you — hence the verb 'demand forcibly.' To weigh something out to the precise amount gave the adjective: exact, accurate to the last grain. The 'precise' and 'demand' meanings are two faces of one act of driving out.
Root act still carries 59 more wordsWhy It Means This
exact is a surprise member of the act family — most people never connect 'precise' with 'driving out.' But both senses come from ex- + agere: to drive something out to the exact measure. The accountant's 'exact figure' and the tyrant who 'exacts tribute' are doing the same Latin action.
Common Collocations
- 1.exact amount确切数额
- 2.exact location确切位置
- 3.the exact opposite恰恰相反
- 4.to be exact确切地说
Example Sentences
- 1.
Can you tell me the exact time of the meeting?
- 2.
These are his exact words.
- 3.
The kidnappers exacted a huge ransom from the family.