Search Dictionary
Definition of exactly

exactly

/ɪɡˈzækt.li/
ex · act · ly
Adjective:exact
JUMP TO:

exactly Lexical Profile

exactly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

Without discrepancy; in a precise and accurate manner, or down to the smallest detail.

Example

"The carpenter cut the wooden beam to fit the doorframe exactly."

2

Used as an intensifier to emphasize the accuracy of a figure, description, or specification, or with 'not' to indicate a polite understatement.

Example

"The train arrived at the station at exactly six o'clock."

3

Used in questions to ask for more specific information or to express slight skepticism.

Example

"What exactly do you hope to accomplish with this new policy?"

Synonyms
View all synonyms for exactly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for exactly

• interjection

1

Used as a reply to confirm or agree wholeheartedly with what someone has just said.

Example

""If we delay the project, we will lose our funding." "Exactly!""

Synonyms
View all synonyms for exactly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for exactly

• Rhymes for exactly

• Nearby Words

exacting
exactingly
exactitude
exactly
exactness
exacum
exaggerate

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century from the adjective 'exact' (borrowed from Latin 'exactus', the past participle of 'exigere', meaning 'to drive out, demand, or measure precisely') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Exactly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/exactly
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.