extrapolation Definition
- 1the act of estimating or concluding something by assuming that existing trends will continue or a current method will remain applicable
- 2the process of extending the application of a method or conclusion to an unknown situation by assuming that existing trends will continue or similar methods will be applicable
Using extrapolation: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "extrapolation" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Based on the data from the past year, we can make an extrapolation for next year's sales.
Example
The scientists used extrapolation to predict the future climate changes.
Example
The company's financial team made an extrapolation of the profits for the next quarter.
extrapolation Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for extrapolation
Phrases with extrapolation
an error that occurs when an assumption is made about a trend or pattern that does not continue in the same way
Example
The extrapolation error was due to the fact that the data used was incomplete.
a number used to multiply a known value in order to estimate an unknown value
Example
The extrapolation factor was used to calculate the expected growth rate of the company.
a mathematical technique used to estimate values beyond the range of known data
Example
The extrapolation method was used to predict the future sales of the product.
Origins of extrapolation
from Latin 'extra' meaning 'beyond' and 'polare' meaning 'to polish'
Summary: extrapolation in Brief
Extrapolation [ɪkˌstræpəˈleɪʃən] is the act of estimating or concluding something by assuming that existing trends will continue or a current method will remain applicable. It is a process of extending the application of a method or conclusion to an unknown situation by assuming that existing trends will continue or similar methods will be applicable. Examples include predicting future sales based on past data and using mathematical techniques to estimate values beyond the range of known data.