Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a rough estimation
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a rough estimation" is correct and usable in written English.
It means a rough or approximate calculation or assessment of something. Example: "I can give you a rough estimation of how much the project will cost, but I will need to gather more information to give you an accurate quote."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
These estimates provide a rough estimation of the rate of gene exchange among subspecies and should not be viewed as precise measures.
Science
Nevertheless, a rough estimation of model specificity was indirectly and tentatively estimated by further independent techniques (i.e., chemical and histological examinations) described in the Materials and methods section.
A rough estimation is always helpful.
Thus, the law allows a rough estimation of the cost of destroying a patch.
But a rough estimation was made from local people, government and non-government offices.
A rough estimation of the density of states is given from temperature measurements.
Science
For this reason, a rough estimation of that number should be considered.
For a rough estimation, the sampling depth at different angles is given as 3λcosθ.
Science
Equivalent full hours may be used for a rough estimation of annual heating and cooling energy requirements in buildings.
Science
Since this is a rough estimation based only on the recent 44 years, detailed discussions are left for further considerations.
Science
A rough estimation shows that the order of magnitude of vibration (absorption) frequency ω falls in the gigahertz frequency range.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When presenting "a rough estimation", clearly state the limitations of its accuracy and indicate potential sources of error. This manages expectations and avoids misinterpretations.
Common error
Avoid presenting "a rough estimation" as a definitive value. Use qualifying language (e.g., "approximately", "around", "in the range of") to reflect its imprecise nature.
Source & Trust
77%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a rough estimation" functions primarily as a noun phrase that introduces an approximate or inexact calculation or assessment. Ludwig examples show it's often used when precise figures are unavailable or unnecessary.
Frequent in
Science
71%
News & Media
10%
Formal & Business
5%
Less common in
Wiki
5%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "a rough estimation" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to introduce an approximate calculation or assessment. Ludwig examples demonstrate its frequent application in scientific, news, and business contexts. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's crucial to acknowledge the limitations of its accuracy when using it. Alternatives like "an approximate calculation" or "a ballpark figure" can be used depending on the level of formality required. When presenting this estimation, avoid overstating its precision and use qualifying language to manage expectations.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
an approximate calculation
Replaces "estimation" with "calculation", emphasizing the numerical aspect while maintaining the concept of being approximate.
a ballpark figure
Uses idiomatic language to convey the sense of an approximate number or value.
a back-of-the-envelope calculation
Emphasizes the informality and quickness of the estimation.
a preliminary assessment
Replaces "estimation" with "assessment", suggesting an initial evaluation or judgment that is not yet finalized.
a crude approximation
Substitutes "rough" with "crude" and "estimation" with "approximation", highlighting the lack of precision.
a quick reckoning
Uses "reckoning" to mean an estimation or calculation, emphasizing speed.
an educated guess
Highlights the speculative nature of the estimation, based on some knowledge or experience.
a tentative estimate
Uses "tentative" to suggest the estimation is provisional and subject to change.
a working hypothesis
Presents the estimation as a starting point for further investigation.
a guesstimate
Combines "guess" and "estimate" to denote an informal and imprecise calculation.
FAQs
How can I use "a rough estimation" in a sentence?
You can use "a rough estimation" to introduce an approximate value or calculation, for example, "Based on the available data, a rough estimation puts the cost at around $1 million."
What's the difference between "a rough estimation" and "a precise calculation"?
"A rough estimation" implies an approximate value, possibly based on incomplete data or simplified assumptions. "A precise calculation", on the other hand, is expected to be accurate and based on complete and reliable data.
When is it appropriate to use "a rough estimation"?
It's appropriate to use "a rough estimation" when precise data is unavailable, or when a quick, approximate figure is sufficient for the purpose. Be sure to acknowledge the estimate's limitations.
What can I say instead of "a rough estimation"?
You can use alternatives like "a ballpark figure", "an approximate calculation", or "a preliminary assessment" depending on the context.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
77%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested