exactly

From exact +‎ -ly.

• IPA^(key): /ɪɡˈzæk(t)li/

• Audio (US):

  (file)

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.

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.

• (without approximation): accurately, exact, perfectly; see also Thesaurus:exactly

• (antonym(s) of “without approximation”): approximately

exactly

1. Signifies agreement or recognition.

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