an approximate calculation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an approximate calculation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a calculation that is not exact but provides a close estimate of a value. Example: "To determine the budget for the project, we need to make an approximate calculation of the costs involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Currently, it can also be calculated by using the efficiency transfer method empirically derived from an approximate calculation of the effective solid angle ratio.

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Physics

The damping ratio scale in this figure is an approximate calculation.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

In Italy, the cost of reflex tests is predetermined on the basis of an approximate calculation of the number and type of further tests that could be executed.

Autoimmunity Highlights

In this paper, we present an analytical model for an approximate calculation of the end-to-end delay performance in multi-hop wireless ad hoc networks.

Computer Communications

One is the modal superposition method, and this method is an accurate calculation; the other method is equivalent static load method, which is an approximate calculation of deflection.

Engineering Structures

Below, we will show that an approximate calculation of the electronic structure at the metal/Si interface using the Schottky-Mott relationships [14, 15] does not support the idea of hole diffusion away from the metal/Si interface.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

In a usual approximate calculation for a normal strand, E p  = 2 × 105 MPa and A p  = 138.7 mm2 are used to produce E p A p  = 27,740 kN.

International Journal of Concrete Structures and Materials

The invariance property of the impulse response mentioned above in combination with the structure equations allow for an explicit approximate calculation of h ˇ c.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

The significance is that an approximate sequence ({ x_{n}}) is obtained despite the approximate functions (f replaced by the approximate functions (f^{n})), the approximate feasible set ((A_{n}) instead of A) and the approximate calculation method ((epsilon _{n} -equilibrium point).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

A very accurate calculation method for taking into account the effect of wind and temperature gradients on sound propagation outdoors is presented and used for verification of a new approximate calculation model.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

However, for in-phase proportional multiaxial histories, where the principal directions do not change and the load path in a stress diagram follows a straight line, approximate calculation methods can be used to avoid the need for an incremental EP approach.

International Journal of Fatigue

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "an approximate calculation", clearly state the assumptions and limitations to avoid misinterpretation. Transparency enhances credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting "an approximate calculation" as a definitive result. Always acknowledge its inherent uncertainty and potential margin of error.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an approximate calculation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the action or result of performing a calculation that yields an estimated, rather than exact, value. Ludwig provides many examples from academic papers.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

18%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an approximate calculation" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term, primarily found in scientific and technical contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to indicate that a calculation provides an estimate rather than a precise value. When using this phrase, it's important to acknowledge the inherent uncertainty and limitations. Alternatives like "a rough estimate" or "an estimated calculation" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. While the phrase appears across multiple domains, its prevalence in scientific publications highlights its importance in academic and research settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an estimated calculation

Highlights that the calculation is based on estimation rather than precise data.

a close estimation

Implies a relatively accurate approximation.

a rough estimate

Emphasizes the lack of precision and quick nature of the estimation.

a preliminary calculation

Indicates an initial calculation that may be refined later.

a back-of-the-envelope calculation

Suggests a quick and informal calculation, typically done without sophisticated tools.

a tentative calculation

Highlights the provisional and uncertain nature of the calculation.

a ballpark figure

Indicates a very general and inexact approximation, often used in informal contexts.

a speculative calculation

Emphasizes that the calculation is based on assumptions and conjecture.

an educated guess

Suggests an estimation based on knowledge and experience.

an order of magnitude calculation

Focuses on estimating the scale or size, rather than the exact value.

FAQs

How can I use "an approximate calculation" in a sentence?

You can use "an approximate calculation" when you need to estimate a value without needing or having the means for a precise calculation. For example, "We made "an approximate calculation" of the project's cost before starting."

What is a good alternative to "an approximate calculation"?

Alternatives include "a rough estimate", "an estimated calculation", or "a ballpark figure". The best choice depends on the context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "an approximate calculation"?

It's appropriate when a precise calculation isn't necessary or feasible, such as in early planning stages or when dealing with incomplete data. However, ensure you acknowledge the potential for error.

What's the difference between "an approximate calculation" and "an exact calculation"?

"An approximate calculation" provides an estimate, while "an exact calculation" aims for a precise result. The former involves some degree of estimation, while the latter relies on precise data and methods.