What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
calculation
Example
I need to do some calculations to determine the total cost of the project. [calculations: noun]
Example
She is skilled in mental calculations and can quickly solve math problems in her head. [calculations: noun]
computation
Example
The supercomputer is capable of high-speed computations that would take humans much longer. [computations: noun]
Example
He studied computer science and specializes in algorithm design and computation. [computation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Calculation is more commonly used than computation in everyday language. Calculation is a versatile term that covers a wide range of mathematical tasks, while computation is more specific and often associated with advanced technology and computer science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between calculation and computation?
While calculation is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, computation is more formal and technical in nature, often used in scientific and academic settings.
