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exacto

ek-SAHK-toh/eɡˈsa(k)to/

“exacto” means “exact” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

exact

Also: precise, correct
A square wooden block fitting precisely and seamlessly into a matching square cut-out on a wooden base, illustrating exactness.

📝 In Action

¿Cuál es la hora exacta?

A1

What is the exact time?

Necesito el número exacto de personas que vienen.

A2

I need the precise number of people coming.

La descripción que diste es exacta, no hay errores.

B1

The description you gave is accurate (exact), there are no mistakes.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • preciso (precise)
  • correcto (correct)

Antonyms

  • inexacto (inexact)
  • vago (vague)

Common Collocations

  • medida exacta – exact measurement
  • cálculo exacto – precise calculation

Exactly!

Also: That's right!, Correct!
InterjectionA1informal
An adult giving a strong thumbs-up gesture and nodding vigorously in agreement with a child who is pointing at an object, symbolizing the interjection 'Exactly!'

📝 In Action

—Entonces, ¿la reunión es a las 5? —¡Exacto!

A1

—So, the meeting is at 5? —Exactly! (That's right!)

Llegaste a la conclusión exacta que yo esperaba.

B2

You reached the exact conclusion I was expecting.

Ella describió el problema. Exacto. No hay nada más que añadir.

A2

She described the problem. Correct. There's nothing more to add.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • ¡Claro! (Of course!)
  • ¡Así es! (That's how it is!)

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "exacto" in Spanish:

correct→exact→exactly!→precise→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: exacto

Question 1 of 2

Which sentence uses 'exacto' correctly as an interjection?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
exactitud(exactitude, precision) — Noun
exactamente(exactly (adverb)) — Adverb
inexacto(inexact) — Adjective
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

Comes from the Latin word *exactus*, which meant 'precise' or 'measured out.' It is the past participle of the verb *exigere*, meaning 'to demand' or 'to weigh carefully.' This idea of careful measurement is what gives 'exacto' its meaning of precision.

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

Italian: esattoPortuguese: exato

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'exacto' and 'preciso'?

They are often interchangeable. 'Exacto' generally emphasizes perfect correctness or truth, especially regarding numbers or facts. 'Preciso' often implies great detail or meticulousness, like in a detailed report or delicate operation. However, you can usually use either word.

Can I use 'Exactamente' instead of 'Exacto' when agreeing with someone?

Yes! 'Exactamente' is the adverb form ('exactly'). It is slightly more formal than 'Exacto' but completely common and correct to use in conversation to mean 'Exactly so' or 'That is absolutely correct.'