WordGarden.ioinaccurate
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪnˈækjʊrət/
US
- /ˌɪˈnækjərət/
Meanings
Adjective
not correct, exact, or free from error
Beyond the definition
If something is accurate, it is correct and exact. If it is inaccurate, it is not quite right, like a map with a few mistakes or a story told with some details changed. Imagine a detective trying to solve a case: clues that are not right can lead them down the wrong path. A clock that runs slow is inaccurate, and so is a rumor shared without checking the facts. Sometimes this happens on purpose, but often it is just a simple mistake.
The word "inaccurate" describes something that is not correct or precise. It has mistakes, or it does not match the facts fully. Think of an archer aiming for the bullseye: if the arrow lands off target, the shot is inaccurate. This idea applies to many things.
An inaccurate weather forecast might predict sunshine when rain arrives. An inaccurate measurement could ruin a recipe. A historian relying on inaccurate sources might write a flawed account of the past. It's important to note that "inaccurate" doesn't necessarily mean deliberately false—it simply means not correct, even if the mistake is unintentional.
The context often dictates how serious inaccuracy is. A slightly inaccurate estimate for grocery shopping isn't a big deal, but an inaccurate medical diagnosis could have severe consequences. In legal settings, accuracy is paramount; inaccurate testimony can lead to miscarriages of justice.
So, whether it's data, information, measurements, or statements—if something doesn't align with the truth, it's inaccurate, and careful attention should be paid to correct it.
Examples
- 1
Website directions
The directions on the website were inaccurate, and we ended up at the wrong building.
- 2
Report figures
Some of the numbers in the report were inaccurate.
- 3
Media description
The article gave an inaccurate picture of life in the town.
- Patterninaccurate picture of + situation
a false or misleading overall impression of it
- 4
Cost estimate
Her first estimate of the cost was wildly inaccurate.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Memory
My memory may be inaccurate about the exact date.
- Patterninaccurate about + detail
wrong about that detail
- 6
Careful statement
It would be inaccurate to say that the plan has completely failed.
- Patternit would be inaccurate to say + claim
that claim would not be fully correct
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- inaccurate information
- inaccurate data
- inaccurate estimate
- factually inaccurate
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- inaccurateadjective