exactly

adverb

ex·act·ly | \ ig-ˈzak-(t)lē

Definition of exactly

1a : in a manner or measure or to a degree or number that strictly conforms to a fact or condition it's exactly 3 o'clock these two pieces are exactly the same size

b : in every respect : altogether, entirely that was exactly the wrong thing to do not exactly what I had in mind

2 : quite so —used to express agreement

Synonyms & Antonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about exactly

Keep scrolling for more

Examples of exactly in a Sentence

The levers need to be exactly positioned. we will meet at exactly six o'clock

Recent Examples on the Web

Weathers and Monnich have captured exactly that at their Stove & Tap, the multi-floor American bistro and bar that’s become a lively anchor of Lansdale’s resurgence. — Craig Laban, Philly.com, "The Bercy adds French brasserie sheen to thriving Ardmore scene," 13 July 2018 This is exactly the kind of play that belongs there. — David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, "'Mary Page Marlowe': Theater Review," 13 July 2018 To get a complete picture, scientists need to answer some basic questions: Where are the warm waters, exactly? — Kasha Patel, Smithsonian, "How Data-Gathering Seals Help Scientists Measure the Melting Antarctic," 13 July 2018 This glorious right may not be exactly inalienable, though — especially in Half Moon Bay. — SFChronicle.com, "5 hidden beaches around Half Moon Bay," 12 July 2018 What exactly happened there remains somewhat uncertain. — Gabby Raymond, Time, "The Justice Department Has Reopened Its Investigation of Emmett Till's Murder. Here Are 5 Things to Know About the Case," 12 July 2018 However, Sky Harbor Airport isn’t exactly teeming with golf-club-carrying visitors to fill up those hotels at this time of year. — Weldon B. Johnson, azcentral, "8 reasons to love the Phoenix heat in summer," 14 July 2018 Who Is Vera Kelly? won’t exactly set the literati’s hearts aflutter. — Rayyan Al-shawaf, Philly.com, "'Who Is Vera Kelly?' by Rosalie Knecht: Brainy, endearing bisexual spy," 13 July 2018 When Mike Melazzo was growing up in Glen Ellyn and Wheaton, the two cities weren’t exactly alcohol-friendly. — Grace Wong, chicagotribune.com, "Common Good aims to create new cocktail culture in western suburbs," 13 July 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'exactly.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.