Definition

1. Noun:
   • An estimate or calculation that is close to but not exactly the actual value or quantity: A number, result, or statement that is nearly, but not completely, accurate.
   • The quality or state of being close or similar to something else: The act of bringing near in position, nature, or value.
   • An imprecise or simplified version of something: An account, description, or model that captures the general idea but lacks exact detail.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The figure of 10.5 million is a close approximation of the actual population.
  • This map gives only a rough approximation of the terrain.
  • In the early stages of design, we work with approximations before finalizing the calculations.

Advanced Usage

• "As a first approximation": Used to describe an initial, simplified estimate or model to begin an analysis.
  • As a first approximation, we can assume the market will grow by 5% annually.
• "To a first approximation": A phrase meaning "in a simplified or roughly accurate way."
  • To a first approximation, the Earth's orbit can be considered circular.

Variants and Related Words

• Approximate (verb): To come close or be similar to something in quality, nature, or quantity.
  • The cost will approximate $200.
• Approximate (adjective): Nearly exact or accurate, but not completely so.
  • Please give me an approximate time of arrival.
• Approximately (adverb): Used to show that something is almost, but not completely, accurate or exact.
  • The journey takes approximately three hours.

Synonyms

• Estimate: A rough calculation or judgment of value, number, quantity, or extent.
• Guess: An estimate or conclusion formed without sufficient information for certainty.
• Rough calculation: A quick, not highly precise mathematical estimate.

Related Phrases

• Ballpark figure: A rough numerical estimate or approximation.
  • Can you give me a ballpark figure for the total cost?
• Back-of-the-envelope calculation: A quick, informal approximation or estimate.
  • He did a back-of-the-envelope calculation to see if the project was feasible.

Idioms

• Close enough for government work: A humorous idiom meaning an approximation is sufficiently accurate for the purpose at hand.
  • The measurements aren't perfect, but they're close enough for government work.

Noun

1. the act of bringing near or bringing together especially the cut edges of tissue
2. an imprecise or incomplete account
   • newspapers gave only an approximation of the actual events
3. the quality of coming near to identity (especially close in quantity)
4. an approximate calculation of quantity or degree or worth
   • an estimate of what it would cost
   • a rough idea how long it would take