The spelling of the word "exactingness" can be a challenge due to its complexity. It is pronounced as /ɪɡˈzæktɪŋnəs/ and comprised of a prefix "ex-", meaning out, and "act" and "ness," indicating performance and state, respectively. The word describes the quality of being precise, severe, or demanding. While its pronunciation may sound difficult, with practice, one can master its spelling and use it in a sentence to convey a specific meaning.
Exactingness is a noun form of the adjective "exacting," and refers to the quality or state of demanding precision, accuracy, or perfection. It encompasses the nature or characteristic of being exacting, particularly in terms of setting high standards, attention to detail, and strict requirements.
The term is often associated with individuals who possess high expectations of others or of themselves, and who consistently strive for excellence. Exactingness implies a relentless pursuit of precision and adherence to specific guidelines or criteria. This trait may manifest in various contexts, including academic, professional, or personal settings, where individuals exhibit a meticulous and scrupulous approach towards achieving desired outcomes.
In terms of personal attributes, exactingness can be seen as a sign of thoroughness, conscientiousness, or uncompromising dedication. However, it can also be perceived as an excessive or relentless pursuit of perfection, leading to undue pressure or stress. Individuals who possess a strong sense of exactingness may tend to be highly critical of themselves or others, constantly seeking flawlessness and rarely being satisfied with less than perfection.
Overall, exactingness is a quality that reflects an unwavering commitment to precision, accuracy, and high standards. It encompasses the notion of being meticulous, rigorous, and demanding, seeking nothing short of perfection in various endeavors.
The word "exactingness" is derived from the verb "exact". The verb "exact" originated from the Latin word "exigere", which means "to demand, to drive out, or to measure precisely". In English, "exact" has been in use since the 16th century, originally meaning "to demand or obtain by authority". Over time, the word has developed additional meanings related to precision or accuracy. Adding the suffix "-ness" to "exacting" creates the noun "exactingness", which refers to the quality or state of being exacting, meticulous, or demanding.