What does “Back-of-the-envelope calculation” mean?

"Back-of-the-envelope calculation" means a rough estimate or calculation made quickly and informally.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I did a back-of-the-envelope calculation to figure out how much the trip would cost.

Example

The boss asked for a back-of-the-envelope calculation of the project's timeline.

Example

We made a back-of-the-envelope calculation to determine if the investment was worth it

Is “Back-of-the-envelope calculation” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Back-of-the-envelope calculation” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Back-of-the-envelope calculation” effectively in context?

You can use "Back-of-the-envelope calculation" when you need to make a rough estimate or calculation quickly and informally. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase:

1Travel Planning
I did a back-of-the-envelope calculation to figure out how much the trip would cost.
2Work
The boss asked for a back-of-the-envelope calculation of the project's timeline.
3Financial Decision
We made a back-of-the-envelope calculation to determine if the investment was worth it.

Similar phrases to “Back-of-the-envelope calculation”:

Rough estimate

An approximate calculation or guess

Example

He gave a rough estimate of the project's cost.

Ballpark figure

A rough or approximate number

Example

She provided a ballpark figure for the budget.

Thumb rule

A general principle or guideline used for estimation

Example

As a thumb rule, you should save 20% of your income.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Back-of-the-envelope calculation” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Back-of-the-envelope calculation" is unknown.

Is “Back-of-the-envelope calculation” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Back-of-the-envelope calculation" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used in informal settings to refer to a quick and rough estimate or calculation.

What tone does “Back-of-the-envelope calculation” have?

"Back-of-the-envelope calculation" conveys a tone of informality and speed. It suggests that the calculation is not precise or detailed but rather a quick estimation.

Can “Back-of-the-envelope calculation” be used in informal and formal settings?

Although "Back-of-the-envelope calculation" is an informal expression, it can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is commonly used in casual conversations among friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or presentations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I did a back-of-the-envelope calculation and estimated the cost.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Let's do a "back-of-the-envelope calculation"!' to suggest making a quick estimate.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

Antonyms

precise calculation
exact measurement
detailed analysis