/ ɪgˈzæktli; NAmE / adverb
1.
used to emphasize that sth is correct in every way or in every detail
SYN precisely :
I know exactly how she felt.
Do exactly as I tell you.
It happened almost exactly a year ago.
It's exactly nine o'clock.
You haven't changed at all—you still look exactly the same .
His words had exactly the opposite effect.
Your answer is exactly right.
It was a warm day, if not exactly hot.
2.
( informal ) used to ask for more information about sth :
Where exactly did you stay in France?
( disapproving )
Exactly what are you trying to tell me?
3.
used as a reply, agreeing with what sb has just said, or emphasizing that it is correct :
'You mean somebody in this room must be the murderer?' 'Exactly.'
•
IDIOMS
- not exactly