a reasonable guess

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reasonable guess" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when making an estimation or assumption that is logical and based on available information. Example: "Based on the data we have, a reasonable guess would be that sales will increase by 10% next quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This seems a reasonable guess.

The Economist

Five hundred years is a reasonable guess.

The Guardian

It was a reasonable guess: strangers in isolated Malhadas are not common.

The New York Times

If they think that Mr Takano will waste their capital, they are making a reasonable guess.

The Economist

Grant's theory was a reasonable guess, but after practice Friday, Gore said it was incorrect.

The New York Times - Sports

But a reasonable guess hangs on the meaning of the word "quitting".

The Economist

That is probably a reasonable guess (other security-software firms put the figure far higher).

The Economist

I don't have a total for all of that at hand, but a reasonable guess is that it would cost $600,000 to replace everything in the shop.

The New York Times

If he's used the stove twenty thousand times in his life, it's a reasonable guess that he's made this mistake maybe a few hundred times.

The New Yorker

They can even make a reasonable guess about how well-used (or damaged) a device is, which can affect its resale value.

The Economist

It is hard to be precise about when the friendship began, but a reasonable guess is that it has been going strong for more than 20,000 years.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a reasonable guess" when you want to express an estimation that is not based on precise data but on logical inferences and available information. It's perfect to use when predicting outcomes or explaining possibilities.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a reasonable guess" as a certainty. Qualify the statement with phrases like "it is likely" or "it is possible" to maintain appropriate levels of confidence and transparency. Make sure your guess sounds like a guess and not like a firm prediction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reasonable guess" functions as a noun phrase that often acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes an estimation or prediction that is based on some form of reasoning or available information. According to Ludwig AI, this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reasonable guess" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express an estimation or prediction that is based on logical inferences and available information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and widely usable in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context provides some basis for the guess to be considered reasonable, and avoid overstating the guess as a certainty. Alternative phrases include "an educated estimate" and "a sensible conjecture". By following these guidelines, writers can effectively use "a reasonable guess" to convey thoughtful estimations while maintaining clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sensible conjecture

Similar to a reasonable guess, but slightly more formal.

an educated estimate

This alternative implies that the guess is based on knowledge and learning, making it more informed.

an informed prediction

Highlights the predictive nature of the guess, based on available information.

a calculated assumption

This suggests that the guess involves some degree of calculation or careful consideration.

a logical deduction

This implies the guess is a result of logical reasoning from available information.

a sound hypothesis

More formal, suggesting the guess is a basis for further investigation.

a well-founded suspicion

This suggests the guess is based on some evidence, though perhaps not conclusive.

a likely scenario

Shifts the focus to the potential outcome that the guess suggests.

a considered opinion

This emphasizes the thoughtfulness behind the guess.

a practical assessment

Focuses on the practicality and realism of the guess.

FAQs

How can I use "a reasonable guess" in a sentence?

You can use "a reasonable guess" when you are making an estimation or prediction based on the information you have available. For example, "Based on the current market trends, "a reasonable guess" would be that the stock price will increase."

What phrases are similar to "a reasonable guess"?

Similar phrases include "a sensible estimate", "a logical assumption", or "a plausible theory". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of certainty you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a reasonable guess" in formal writing?

Yes, "a reasonable guess" can be used in formal writing, especially when discussing predictions or estimations where precise data is unavailable. However, ensure that the guess is supported by some evidence or logical reasoning to maintain credibility. Be sure to clarify that is just a guess, for example you can add some cautious wording.

What's the difference between "a reasonable guess" and "an educated guess"?

While both phrases suggest an estimation, "an educated guess" typically implies that the guess is based on a deeper understanding or expertise in the subject matter. "A reasonable guess" is a more general term and may simply be based on readily available information or logical inferences.