Precis - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

Maybe your like

SKIP TO CONTENT precis /ˈpreɪˌsi/ IPA guide

Other forms: precised; precises

A precis is a summary of something's main points. If you've ever jotted down notes about your main ideas before writing a persuasive essay, you've used a precis.

Precis looks like precise, and of course, you always want your precis to be precise. But the words are pronounced differently. Precis comes from the French word précis, so say it like this: "PRAY see." Or you can accent the other syllable: "pray SEE." The s is only pronounced if the word is plural: "PRAY sees." The spelling stays the same.

Definitions of precis

noun a sketchy summary of the main points of an argument or theory synonyms: abstract, outline, synopsis see moresee less types: brief a condensed written summary or abstract apercu a short synopsis epitome a brief abstract (as of an article or book) type of: sum-up, summary a brief statement that presents the main points in a concise form
verb make a summary (of) see moresee less type of: resume, sum up, summarise, summarize give a summary (of)

Cite this entry Style: MLA

MLA
APA
Chicago

Copy citation DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘precis'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback Word Family

Vocabulary lists containing precis

The Picture of Dorian Gray Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde scandalized Victorian audiences with this macabre story of a man who trades his soul for eternal youth and beauty. Read the full text here.

English Words Derived from French, List 11

Here are links to our lists in the collection: List 1, List 2, List 3, List 4, List 5, List 6, List 7, List 8, List 9, List 10, List 11, Terms

Vocabulary from the Lyrics of Stephen Sondheim, Volume I MORE VOCABULARY LISTS 2 million people are mastering new words. Master a word

Sign up now (it’s free!)

Whether you’re a teacher or a learner, Vocabulary.com can put you or your class on the path to systematic vocabulary improvement.

Get started Learn with us

Learner subscriptions
Vocabulary lists
Dictionary
Test Prep
Join a Vocabulary Jam
Commonly confused words
Word of the day

Teach with us

For educators
For schools and districts
How it works
Success stories
Research
Professional development
Contact sales

Resources

Help articles/FAQ
Teaching resources
Learner resources
ESL/ELL resources
Grade level resources
IPA Pronunciation
Contact support

Leaderboards

Vocabulary Bowl
Today's leaders
Weekly leaders
Monthly leaders

About

Our Mission
Blog
Tell us what you think
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use

My Account Log in Sign up

Log Out
My Learning
My Proficiency Report
My Profile
Schools & Teachers
My Classes
Assignments & Activities
My Lists
- Find a List to Learn...
- Create a New List...
My Progress
- Words I'm Learning
- My Trouble Words
- Words I've Mastered
- My Achievements
User Administration
User Authentication
My Account