approximation

[əˌprɑːk.səˈmeɪ.ʃən]

approximation Definition

an estimate or guess of a quantity, value, or degree of something.

Using approximation: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "approximation" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The cost of the project is just an approximation.

  • Example

    I can only give you an approximation of how long it will take.

  • Example

    The answer is not exact, but it's a good approximation.

approximation Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for approximation

Phrases with approximation

  • an estimate that is not exact or precise

    Example

    The budget for the project was based on a rough approximation of the costs involved.

  • an estimate that is very similar to the actual value

    Example

    The computer's approximation of the answer was very close to the correct value.

  • an approximation of a function by a straight line

    Example

    The linear approximation of the function was used to simplify the calculations.

Origins of approximation

from Latin 'approximare', meaning 'to come near'

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Summary: approximation in Brief

An 'approximation' [əˌprɑːk.səˈmeɪ.ʃən] is an estimate or guess of a quantity, value, or degree of something. It is often used when an exact answer is not possible or necessary. Phrases like 'rough approximation' and 'close approximation' describe estimates that are not exact or very similar to the actual value, respectively. 'Linear approximation' refers to an approximation of a function by a straight line.