approximate
Estimate or come close to an accurate figure or description
Examples
In a meeting
“Can you approximate how long this project will take?”
Over coffee
“I can only approximate how many people showed up—maybe 50?”
Why this word
estimate
approximate means to come close to an exact value, while estimate focuses on making an educated guess without claiming nearness
guess
approximate implies reasonable accuracy based on method, while guess suggests less certainty and rigor
calculate
approximate acknowledges inexactness in arriving at a close value, while calculate implies seeking exact results
Usage tip
Use when you need a rough estimate rather than exact precision
Etymology
Latin: ad- (to) + proximus (nearest)
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Related words
benchmark
A standard or point of reference for measuring or comparing performance.
gauge
To estimate or assess the extent or nature of something
plateau
Reach a stable level after growth, with no further increase
threshold
The point at which something begins or changes
quantify
Express or measure something in numerical terms
spike
To increase suddenly and sharply