exactly
Translation
precisely, just so, absolutely
Examples
That's exactly what I mean.
That's precisely what I mean.
It's exactly three o'clock.
It's precisely three o'clock.
Grammar Patterns
((...)) used to emphasize that something is correct That's exactly what I wanted.
((number)) used to emphasize a number or amount It costs exactly ten dollars.
Similar Words
Synonyms: precisely, accurately; Antonyms: approximately, roughly
Etymology
From Latin 'exactus' (precise, accurate), past participle of 'exigere' (to demand, measure), from 'ex-' (out) + 'agere' (to do, drive).
Memory Tips
Think of an 'exact' measurement. 'Exactly' is the adverb form, describing something done in an exact way.