What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
calculating
Example
She spent hours calculating the total cost of her shopping spree. [calculating: verb]
Example
The students were busy calculating the area of the triangle. [calculating: gerund or present participle]
computational
Example
The computational power of modern computers allows for complex simulations and modeling. [computational: adjective]
Example
He is studying computational mathematics, focusing on developing algorithms for data analysis. [computational: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Calculating is a more commonly used term in everyday language, as it can be applied to various situations that involve mathematical operations. Computational, on the other hand, is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts where the use of computers and algorithms is prevalent.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between calculating and computational?
While calculating is generally considered a more informal term, computational is associated with a more technical and formal tone, often used in academic or professional settings.
