imprecise

adjective

im·​pre·​cise ˌim-pri-ˈsīs How to pronounce imprecise (audio)
Synonyms of imprecisenext
: not precise : inexact, vague
an imprecise estimate
imprecisely adverb
impreciseness noun
imprecision
ˌim-pri-ˈsi-zhən How to pronounce imprecise (audio)
noun

Synonyms of imprecise

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Examples of imprecise in a Sentence

It's an imprecise translation of the original sentence. 3.14 is an imprecise approximation of the value of pi
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With all these features and a unique design that eliminates all the rattling and imprecise grips of conventional wrenches, this tool could find frequent use in your workshop. — New Atlas, 18 May 2026 Knee replacement surgery used to require a surgeon to manually saw bone — an inherently imprecise process. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 29 Mar. 2026 County elections officials explained that the activists were relying on imprecise data. — Shane Harris, The Atlantic, 14 May 2026 The story is practically impossible to follow, the direction is imprecise, and the whole thing is visually dizzying. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for imprecise

Word History

First Known Use

1805, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of imprecise was in 1805

Rhymes for imprecise

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Browse Nearby Words

imprecatory
imprecise
imprecision
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Cite this Entry

“Imprecise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/imprecise. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

imprecise

adjective
im·​pre·​cise ˌim-pri-ˈsīs How to pronounce imprecise (audio)
: not precise
an imprecise estimate
imprecisely adverb
impreciseness noun
imprecision
-ˈsizh-ən How to pronounce imprecise (audio)
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on imprecise

Nglish: Translation of imprecise for Spanish Speakers

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