accurate estimate

USAGE SUMMARY

"accurate estimate" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you're trying to talk about an estimate that has been correctly calculated or that is very precise. For example: "The contractor gave us an accurate estimate for the cost of the construction project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Builders should be willing to give an accurate estimate.

The New York Times

Fix: Provide a more accurate estimate of fraction done.

University of California, Berkeley

Still, she has since declined to give reporters a more accurate estimate of the vase's value.

The New Yorker

Nintendo does not have an accurate estimate of exactly how many Game Boys are in use.

The New York Times

It is still unclear if that is an accurate estimate of the ring's value.

The New York Times

However, we feel this gives a roughly accurate estimate of likelihood.

The Guardian

An accurate estimate of Iraqi casualties over the last two days was impossible to obtain.

The New York Times

An accurate estimate is not one million but four million, and possibly higher.

The New York Times

Some give free telephone estimates, but most must see the piece for an accurate estimate.

The New York Times

This Bayesian approach provides a more accurate estimate of power.

The American Journal of Human Genetics

Perhaps it would be convenient to hear from the Prosecution whether that is an accurate estimate.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "accurate estimate", ensure that the basis for the estimate is clearly stated, providing context for its accuracy. This enhances credibility and transparency.

Common error

Avoid using "accurate estimate" when you mean a precise measurement. An estimate can be accurate even if it's not down to the last decimal place; accuracy implies closeness to the true value, not necessarily granularity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "accurate estimate" functions primarily as a descriptor, modifying a noun (estimate) to indicate a quality of correctness or reliability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used to describe an estimate that has been correctly calculated or is very precise.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "accurate estimate" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe an estimate that is both precise and reliable. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, particularly when referring to calculations or predictions that closely reflect reality. It is frequently found in news articles, scientific publications, and academic writing. While alternatives like "precise calculation" or "reliable forecast" exist, "accurate estimate" remains a straightforward and widely understood choice. To ensure clarity, context should be provided to support the estimate's accuracy, and care should be taken not to confuse accuracy with mere precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precise calculation

Replaces 'estimate' with 'calculation', emphasizing the mathematical aspect of the accuracy.

definitive calculation

Substitutes 'estimate' with 'calculation', giving it a sense of finality and precision.

exact figure

Replaces 'estimate' with 'figure', indicating a specific and correct numerical value.

reliable forecast

Substitutes 'estimate' with 'forecast', suggesting a prediction with a high degree of certainty.

correct appraisal

Uses 'appraisal' instead of 'estimate', focusing on an assessment that is free from error.

valid assessment

Shifts the focus to the legitimacy and correctness of the evaluated value.

close approximation

Emphasizes the nearness to the true value, rather than absolute accuracy.

realistic projection

Highlights the practicality and feasibility of the estimated outcome.

faithful representation

Indicates that the estimate closely mirrors the actual situation or data.

true valuation

Focuses on the honesty and factual basis of the estimated value.

FAQs

How can I use "accurate estimate" in a sentence?

You can use "accurate estimate" to describe a calculation or prediction that closely reflects the actual or expected value. For example, "The surveyor provided an "accurate estimate" of the property's boundaries."

What are some alternatives to "accurate estimate"?

Alternatives to "accurate estimate" include "precise calculation", "reliable forecast", or "exact figure". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "accurate estimate" or "precise estimate"?

While both "accurate estimate" and "precise estimate" suggest a degree of correctness, "accurate" emphasizes closeness to the true value, while "precise" highlights the level of detail. "Accurate estimate" is generally preferred when you want to convey reliability, while "precise estimate" might be used when the level of detail is important.

What makes an estimate considered "accurate"?

An estimate is considered "accurate" when it closely reflects the actual value or outcome. Factors contributing to an "accurate estimate" include thorough data collection, sound methodology, and minimal bias.