a matter of calculation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a matter of calculation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations that require numerical analysis or logical reasoning to arrive at a conclusion. Example: "Deciding whether to invest in the project is simply a matter of calculation; we need to analyze the potential returns against the risks involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

There is, certainly, a matter of calculation by this White House as it seeks to portray Mr. Rove as absent from the Iraq war room.

The New York Times

"Edge of Tomorrow" requires Cage's heroism to be simultaneously physical and intellectual, a matter of calculation and anticipation as well as of courage and execution.

The New Yorker

Thus, strategy is at once a matter of calculation and of instinct, a product of deliberation and purpose on the one hand and of emotion, uncertainty, and interaction on the other.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(3.8) It is a matter of calculation that for the optimal control (u^in U_{ad}), the projection (mathcal{P}_{h} u^) belongs to (U_{ad}^{h}).

Boundary Value Problems

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It's hard to decide if this is a matter of political calculation, or of principle, or of both.

The Guardian

The government, as a matter of political calculation, is not yet ready to put the issue to the British electorate.

The Economist

The short summary is that everybody betrays everybody else, that opportunism trumps idealism and that telling the truth is a matter of tactical calculation rather than ethical imperative.

The New York Times

By and large, norm-abiding behavior is not, as the rational choice model would have it, a matter of cost/benefit calculation.

SEP

The Washington Post Tom Shales was critical of season one, finding it reminiscent of ER and commenting that: "The show is much more a matter of commercial calculation than an honest attempt to try something fresh and different".

Wikipedia

The Washington Post's Tom Shales was critical of the early series, finding it reminiscent of ER and commenting that: "The show is much more a matter of commercial calculation than an honest attempt to try something fresh and different".

Wikipedia

All in all, it's an economic and political environment in which you'd expect Republican politicians, as a sheer matter of calculation, to look for ways to distance themselves from the current administration's economic policies and record — say, by expressing some concern about rising income gaps and the fraying social safety net.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a matter of calculation" when you want to emphasize that a decision or outcome is based on logical reasoning or analysis, rather than emotion or intuition.

Common error

Avoid using "a matter of calculation" in highly informal or casual conversations. It can sound overly formal or pretentious in settings where a more relaxed tone is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a matter of calculation" functions as a noun phrase that typically modifies a verb or another noun, indicating that something depends on or is determined by a process of logical or numerical analysis. Ludwig provides examples where it modifies decisions, strategies, and even heroism.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a matter of calculation" is a phrase used to convey that something is determined by careful analysis and logical reasoning. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for formal contexts, such as news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While not overly common, the phrase effectively emphasizes objectivity and rationality. When using this phrase, ensure that the context warrants its formal tone, and consider alternatives like "a question of analysis" for slight variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A question of analysis

Focuses on the analytical aspect rather than the computational one.

An exercise in logic

Highlights the logical reasoning involved.

A strategic consideration

Emphasizes the strategic planning aspect.

A problem of deduction

Focuses on deducing the answer or outcome.

A point of deliberation

Highlights the thoughtful consideration involved.

An issue of assessment

Focuses on evaluating and judging a situation.

A subject of evaluation

Similar to assessment, but broader in scope.

A question of strategy

Highlights the need for a strategic approach.

A task of reckoning

Implies a formal or official calculation.

A simple computation

Suggests the calculation is straightforward and easy.

FAQs

How can I use "a matter of calculation" in a sentence?

You can use "a matter of calculation" to describe situations where decisions are based on careful analysis and logical reasoning. For example, "Deciding whether to invest in the project is simply "a matter of calculation"; we need to analyze the potential returns against the risks involved."

What can I say instead of "a matter of calculation"?

You can use alternatives like "a question of analysis", "an exercise in logic", or "a strategic consideration" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a matter of calculation"?

It is appropriate to use "a matter of calculation" in formal contexts, such as business reports, academic papers, or news articles, where objective analysis is emphasized. It's best suited when describing a situation that requires careful assessment and logical deduction.

What is the difference between "a matter of calculation" and "a matter of opinion"?

"A matter of calculation" implies a decision based on objective data and analysis, while "a matter of opinion" suggests a decision based on subjective beliefs and personal preferences. The former relies on verifiable facts, while the latter is more about individual judgment.