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
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'
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.
