Esatto vs. preciso
The Italian words 'esatto' and 'preciso' both relate to accuracy and precision, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Esatto
'Esatto' means exact, correct, or right. It is often used to confirm or agree with a statement.
La tua risposta è esatta.
(Your answer is correct.)
Esatto! Hai indovinato.
(Exactly! You guessed it.)
L'orario esatto del treno è le 15:30.
(The exact time of the train is 3:30 PM.)
Preciso
'Preciso' means precise, accurate, or meticulous. It often describes detailed or careful actions and characteristics.
Il chirurgo ha fatto un taglio preciso.
(The surgeon made a precise incision.)
Lei è sempre molto precisa nel suo lavoro.
(She is always very precise in her work.)
Ho bisogno di istruzioni più precise.
(I need more precise instructions.)
Summary
While 'esatto' is often used for correctness and exactness, especially in agreement or confirmation, 'preciso' tends to describe detailed accuracy and meticulousness in actions or characteristics. 'Esatto' is more about being right, while 'preciso' is about being careful and detailed.