exactly

Etymology

From exact +‎ -ly.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ɪɡˈzæk(t)li/

• Audio (US):

  (file)

Adverb

exactly (comparative more exactly, superlative most exactly)

1. (manner) Without approximation; precisely.

   Measure exactly so we can be sure it is right.

   The edge is not exactly straight.

   He divided the coins exactly in half.

   • 1687, Chriſtopher Cooper, “Chap. XIX: Of Barbarous Speaking”, in The Engliſh Teacher, London: John Richardſon, for the Author, pages 77-78; republished Menston: Scolar Press, 1969:

     He, that would write exactly, muſt avoid a Barbarous Pronunciation, and conſider for facility, or thorow miſtake, many words are not ſounded after the beſt dialect. Such as […] Wun, one.

2. (focus) Precisely, used to provide emphasis.

   He did it that way exactly to prove the point.

   • 2012, Amlynn Smith, Lost and Found, page 18:

     His hair is a semilong dull red and pulled back in a sloppy pony at the base of his neck, and his face is riddled with small freckles and grease, but out here I can see personal hygiene isn't exactly at the top of the priority list.

Interjection

exactly

1. Signifies agreement or recognition.

   So you're saying that we have only three days left? — Yes, exactly!