ἀκριβῶς
akribōs
G199 adverb
SILEX Entry
Definition
With precision, care, or exactness; denoting action that is done thoroughly, accurately, or meticulously. In various contexts, ἀκριβῶς describes something performed with particular attention to detail, with full accuracy, or in a manner that meets the highest standards of carefulness. It can nuance diligence of investigation, completeness of information, or thoroughness of conduct.
Semantic Range
with precision, accurately, carefully, thoroughly, strictly, diligently, with complete attention to detail, circumspectly
Root / Etymology
Derived from the adjective ἀκριβής (akrivēs), meaning 'exact' or 'precise,' itself of uncertain root but possibly related to Greek words indicating sharpness or fineness. Used as the adverbial form, indicating how something is done rather than what it is.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, ἀκριβῶς frequently indicated a high degree of accuracy, exactitude, or strictness, applied to both intellectual and practical endeavors. By the Hellenistic period, it enlarged to refer to meticulousness in following instructions or observing traditions. In the New Testament and Septuagint, the term often describes the manner of seeking, learning, or walking (e.g., Ephesians 5:15, "walk circumspectly/exactly"), highlighting thoroughness or sober attentiveness rather than mere mechanical precision. English translations sometimes render it as 'carefully,' 'exactly,' 'diligently,' or 'strictly', but the nuance is best captured as acting or knowing in a manner marked by conscientious precision and full attention. The scope of the word includes both intellectual thoroughness and behavioral carefulness. It should not be confused with terms implying haphazard or casual action. Unlike related adverbs such as καλῶς (well) or εὐθέως (straightforwardly), ἀκριβῶς stresses adherence to detail and completeness. The Latin equivalent diligenter conveys some, but not all, of its sense. Septuagint usage is rare, but when present, it follows similar patterns.
Translation Consistency
'Precisely' matches the primary and most frequent sense in the P2 data and the SILEX range (accuracy, exactness, carefulness). It is natural English, captures both accuracy and thoroughness, and will read consistently across contexts where ἀκριβῶς nuances precision, diligence, or strictness.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
adverb from the same as ἀκριβέστατος; exactly:--circumspectly, diligently, perfect(-ly).
Root Family
ἀκριβῶς (akribōs) — exact, precise, careful, thorough
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G199-01 |
ἀκριβῶς | akribos | ADV |
accurately | with precision | precisely | 5 |
Occurrences in Scripture
5 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G199-01 |
Matthew 2:8 | ἀκριβῶς | akribos | ADV |
carefully | with precision | precisely |
G199-01 |
Luke 1:3 | ἀκριβῶς | akribos | ADV |
accurately | with precision | precisely |
G199-01 |
Acts 18:25 | ἀκριβῶς | akribos | ADV |
accurately | with precision | precisely |
G199-01 |
Ephesians 5:15 | ἀκριβῶς | akribos | ADV |
carefully | with precision | precisely |
G199-01 |
1 Thessalonians 5:2 | ἀκριβῶς | akribos | ADV |
full well | with precision | precisely |