a touch of calculation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a touch of calculation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or action that involves a small amount of planning or strategic thinking. Example: "Her decision to invest in the stock market was made with a touch of calculation, ensuring she minimized her risks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Perhaps, given their image as rapacious capitalists, there may be a touch of calculation about their efforts.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

There may be a touch of the latter in the calculation, hopes of easy applause lines at the coming Conservative conference.

The Guardian

Since that very calculation had been part of the motivation behind his tactical position, his pride was made brittle by a touch of shame.

The New Yorker

"A touch of a roadhouse.

The New York Times - Magazine

7. "A Touch of Sin".

The New Yorker

And a touch of frustration.

The New York Times

A touch of sweetness lingers.

The New York Times - Food

STEVE COLL: A touch of Question Time.

The New Yorker

Bypassed, admitted with a touch of reluctance.

Independent

And perhaps a touch of eyeliner?

The New York Times

There's a touch of realism.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a touch of calculation" to subtly suggest that there is some planning or strategy involved in a situation, without making it seem overly deliberate or manipulative. It adds nuance to your description.

Common error

Avoid using "a touch of calculation" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive and lose its impact. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a hint of strategy" or "an element of forethought" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a touch of calculation" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object of a preposition (e.g., "with a touch of calculation"). Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a touch of calculation" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is used to subtly indicate that an action or decision involves some planning or strategy, without necessarily implying negative connotations. It is most commonly found in news media and general writing. While "a touch of calculation" is a valid phrase, be mindful of overuse and consider alternatives such as "a hint of strategy" or "an element of forethought" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hint of strategy

Emphasizes a subtle indication of a planned approach.

an element of forethought

Highlights the act of thinking about and planning for the future.

a bit of planning

A more straightforward and less nuanced way to express the presence of planning.

a shade of scheming

Implies a slightly negative connotation, suggesting secret or underhanded planning.

some strategic thinking

Emphasizes the cognitive process of developing a strategy.

a degree of premeditation

Suggests a more deliberate and conscious level of planning.

a calculated move

Highlights a specific action that is carefully planned to achieve a desired result.

a strategic inclination

Focuses on a tendency or preference for using strategy.

a considered decision

Highlights the thoughtfulness behind a particular choice.

a measured approach

Implies a careful and deliberate way of doing something.

FAQs

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

You can use "a touch of calculation" to describe actions or decisions that involve a degree of planning or strategy. For example: "Her investment strategy showed "a touch of calculation", aimed at minimizing risk."

What's the difference between "a touch of calculation" and "a lot of calculation"?

"A touch of calculation" implies a small amount of strategic thinking, whereas "a lot of calculation" suggests extensive and detailed planning.

Are there contexts where using "a touch of calculation" might be inappropriate?

It might be inappropriate in contexts where you want to emphasize pure spontaneity or emotional decisions. In such cases, phrases like "purely on instinct" or "without any planning" might be more suitable.

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

You can use alternatives like "a hint of strategy", "an element of forethought", or "a bit of planning depending on the context".