What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
calculate
Example
I need to calculate the total cost of my groceries before I go to the store. [calculate: verb]
Example
She calculated the area of the rectangle by multiplying the length and width. [calculated: past tense]
reckon
Example
I reckon it will take about an hour to finish this task. [reckon: verb]
Example
He reckoned that she would be late based on her previous behavior. [reckoned: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Calculate is more commonly used than reckon in academic, technical, and professional contexts where precise calculations are required. Reckon is more commonly used in informal conversations and everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between calculate and reckon?
Calculate is considered more formal and is commonly used in academic, technical, and professional settings. Reckon, on the other hand, is more informal and is commonly used in casual conversations and everyday language.
