precisamente
“precisamente” means “exactly” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
exactly, precisely
Also: just
📝 In Action
¿Es aquí donde vives? — Sí, precisamente aquí.
A2Is this where you live? — Yes, precisely here.
Llegó precisamente cuando todos se iban.
B1He arrived just when everyone was leaving.
Eso es precisamente lo que habíamos acordado.
B2That is exactly what we had agreed upon.
that's why, for that very reason
Also: as a matter of fact
📝 In Action
No quiso pedir ayuda. Precisamente por eso, su trabajo falló.
B2He didn't want to ask for help. For that very reason, his work failed.
Muchos creen que es un defecto, pero precisamente su inexperiencia es su mayor virtud.
C1Many believe it is a flaw, but as a matter of fact, his inexperience is his greatest virtue.
🔀 Commonly Confused With
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: precisamente
Question 1 of 1
Which English translation best fits 'Precisamente por tu actitud, no te darán el ascenso'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Formed in Spanish by adding the common adverb suffix *-mente* (meaning '-ly') to the adjective *preciso*. *Preciso* comes from the Latin *praecīsus*, meaning 'cut off' or 'brief,' which evolved to mean 'exact' or 'accurate.'
First recorded: Mid-15th century (in its root form)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'precisamente' and 'exactamente'?
Both words mean 'exactly,' and they are often interchangeable. However, 'precisamente' sometimes carries a bit more emotional emphasis or is used more often when introducing a specific reason ('precisely because...'), while 'exactamente' is slightly more focused on numerical or factual accuracy.
Can I use 'precisamente' to contradict someone?
Yes, you can! If someone says, 'I guess you didn't finish the report,' you can reply, '¡Precisamente!' (Exactly!/That's right!) to confirm their statement, or you can use it to argue: 'Precisamente lo opuesto es verdad' (Precisely the opposite is true).