preciso
adjectiveCEFR B2
What does “preciso” mean in English?
precise, exact — marked by accuracy; also: necessary
precise, exact — marked by accuracy; also: necessary ('es preciso + infinitive'); both senses active at B2
Example sentences
un cálculo preciso de los costes previstos
a precise calculation of the projected costs
es preciso actuar antes de que sea tarde
it is necessary to act before it is too late
How to use it
'Preciso/a' means precise or exact. At B2 it also means necessary in certain fixed constructions: 'es preciso + infinitive' (it is necessary to…), 'cuando sea preciso' (when necessary). Both meanings are active. Collocates: 'descripción/instrucciones precisas', 'en el momento preciso'.
Common mistake
Don't confuse 'preciso' (precise/exact) with 'necesario' (necessary) — though 'es preciso' means 'it is necessary', 'una descripción precisa' means 'a precise description', not a necessary one.