Precís

Precís is a term that can refer to several distinct concepts depending on the context. In the realm of printing and typography, a precis is a type of typeface that emerged in the 18th century. These fonts are characterized by a strong contrast between thick and thin strokes, sharp serifs, and a vertical stress. They were often used for displaying headings and titles due to their bold and clear appearance. Examples of precis typefaces include Bodoni and Didot.

Beyond typography, "précis" is also a French word meaning "precise" or "exact." In literature and academic writing, a précis refers to a concise summary of a longer text. This summary captures the main points and arguments of the original work in a condensed form, typically one-third to one-quarter the length of the source material. Creating a précis requires careful reading and an understanding of the author's intent.

In a more general sense, the word precis can simply denote something that is accurate, exact, or delivered without ambiguity. This usage emphasizes clarity and meticulousness. Whether referring to a specific font style, a type of summary, or a general characteristic of exactness, the core idea of precision remains central to the term.