What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
guessing
Example
I'm just guessing, but I think the answer is 42. [guessing: verb]
Example
Without any data, it's just a guessing game as to what the outcome will be. [guessing: noun]
estimation
Example
Based on our estimation, the project will take about three months to complete. [estimation: noun]
Example
We estimated the cost of the repairs to be around $500. [estimated: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Estimation is more commonly used than guessing in professional or technical contexts, while guessing is more informal and casual and may be used more frequently in everyday conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between guessing and estimation?
Estimation is generally considered more formal than guessing, as it is often used in professional or technical contexts where precision and accuracy are important.
