verb

precisar

specify · need

Acción de decir algo con mucha claridad y detalle, o la necesidad de tener algo exacto y necesario.

Word: precisar

Meaning:

  1. To specify/To make precise
    In this sense, "precisar" means to clearly define, specify, or make something exact. It is often used when indicating the need for clarification or exact details.
    Example: Es necesario precisar los datos antes de la reunión. (It is necessary to specify the data before the meeting.)

  2. To need/To require
    "Precisar" can also mean to need or require something. It is used to express necessity.
    Example: Precisamos más tiempo para completar el proyecto. (We need more time to complete the project.)


Parts:

  • Prefix: "pre-" often relates to something done beforehand or in advance.
  • Root: "cisa" derives from Latin "caedere," meaning “to cut.” This relates metaphorically to "cutting down" details to precision.
  • Ending: "-ar," like many Spanish verbs, marks it as an infinitive verb.

Synonyms:

  1. For "to specify / make precise":
  • especificar
  • determinar
  • detallar
  1. For "to need / require":
  • necesitar
  • requerir
  • demandar (though this can imply a stronger or more formal requirement)

Antonyms:

  1. For "to specify / make precise":
  • ambiguo (adjective) — ambiguous; lack of precision
  • generalizar — to generalize
  1. For "to need / require":
  • prescindir (de) — to do without, to dispense with

In sum, precisar is a versatile Spanish verb used either to clarify and specify details or to express the necessity of something.

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Examples

Necesito precisar la información para el proyecto.verb

I need to specify the information for the project.

Ella precisa ayuda con su tarea de la escuela.verb

She needs help with her school homework.

Juan precisa una respuesta clara sobre el tema.verb

Juan needs a clear answer about the topic.

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