To exact something is to not only demand it, but also obtain it. The most common things exacted—revenge, retribution, and that ilk—often require physical force, but other things exacted—such as penalties and prices, promises and concessions—can be obtained with gentler forms of persuasion.
Discover everything about the word "EXACT" in English: meanings, translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one comprehensive guide.
If something's exact, it's precise and completely accurate — as opposed to a guess, an estimate, or an approximation. Exact also has the meaning of taking something from someone, often money, and generally only given up with reluctance under the threat of force.
1. strictly accurate or correct: an exact description. 2. precise, as opposed to approximate: the exact date. 3. admitting of no deviation, as laws or discipline; strict or rigorous. 4. capable of the greatest precision: exact instruments.
If someone is exact, they are careful to follow a rule, guideline, or promise; they are accurate; they are methodical. (transitive) If someone exacts a payment from someone, they demand and enforce it. (transitive) If someone exacts something, they make it desirable; they need it.
Some common synonyms of exact are accurate, correct, nice, precise, and right. While all these words mean "conforming to fact, standard, or truth," exact stresses a very strict agreement with fact, standard, or truth.
