What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
guestimate
Example
I can only guestimate how much the repair will cost without seeing the damage. [guestimate: verb]
Example
The team made a guestimate of the project's timeline based on their previous experience. [guestimate: noun]
approximation
Example
The approximation of the distance between the two cities was about 100 miles. [approximation: noun]
Example
The scientist used an approximation to calculate the speed of the object. [approximation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Approximation is more commonly used than guestimate in everyday language, especially in formal contexts. Guestimate is a more informal term that is used less frequently.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between guestimate and approximation?
Approximation is a more formal term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while guestimate is typically associated with a more casual or playful tone and is used mostly in informal settings.
