What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
approximately
Example
The meeting will start at approximately 9:30 AM. [approximately: adverb]
Example
There are approximately 50 students in the class. [approximately: adjective]
around
Example
Let's meet around the park entrance. [around: preposition]
Example
She walked around the block to get some fresh air. [around: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Around is more commonly used than approximately in everyday language and informal conversations. Around is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while approximately is more specific and often used in more formal or technical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between approximately and around?
While around is commonly used in informal contexts, approximately is considered more formal and is often used in technical or academic writing.