inaccurate

Inaccurate is an adjective meaning not accurate; it describes something that does not correctly reflect facts, measurements, or reality. In everyday use, an inaccurate statement or figure contains errors or lacks sufficient precision to be considered reliable.

Etymology and nuance: from Latin accurate meaning carefully done, with the prefix in- meaning not. The term is generally neutral; it does not imply intent to deceive. It contrasts with incorrect (logically mistaken) or false (not true), though overlap can occur when statements are both inaccurate and incorrect or false.

Contexts and causes: in science, inaccurate measurements can result from instrument error, poor calibration, or sampling bias. In journalism, inaccuracies may arise from misquotation, misinterpretation, or rounding. In maps or models, inaccuracies reflect uncertainty and resolution limits. The term often accompanies qualifiers such as “slightly inaccurate” or “inaccurate by X percent,” underscoring the degree of error.

Implications and correction: inaccuracies can mislead if not identified and addressed. Verification, replication, recalibration, data cleaning, and transparent reporting of uncertainty help reduce inaccuracies. Distinguishing between accidental inaccuracies and deliberate misinformation is important in evaluating sources and claims.

See also: accuracy, precision, error, uncertainty, bias.