an approximate figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an approximate figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that a number or amount is not exact but rather an estimation. Example: "The project will cost an approximate figure of $10,000, but we will provide a more accurate estimate soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

In the US, the official count was 658,507 dead by the end of 2012 – an approximate figure, despite its ring of precision.

The Guardian

"Just give us an approximate figure," they'd say, and the professor would shake her head and cover her crystal ball with a little cozy given to her by one of her previous classes.

The New Yorker

It also pointed to an approximate figure for the mass of the top quark years before it was discovered in 1995 at the Fermi National Laboratory near Chicago.

Science Magazine

This study gives us an approximate figure for the proportion of macular holes linked to posterior uveitis in all macular holes.

Journal of Ophthalmic Inflammation and Infection

However, some people will have to use an approximate figure, like those who work freelance or part-time jobs.

Huffington Post

This is an approximate figure: it includes new ART patients without subtracting any who died after they were seen in the sero-survey, but misses those who were on ART but did not report this.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Try and figure out an approximate number of people that will be attending.

WikiHow

This gives an extremely approximate figure of for an eruption after 60 years of inactivity.

Wikipedia

If I had to give a very approximate figure, we're talking more than 10-20 sea operations a week.

The Guardian

The comparative figure for PE is more difficult to judge because of even more disparate approaches to specific problems of sufficient photovoltage and stability, but an approximate comparative figure of 5% is estimated.

International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

We selected Φ0 = 50% and α = 0.0006 to reproduce the porosity-depth curve at site C0007 in an approximate manner (Figure 2h).

Earth, Planets and Space

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "an approximate figure", ensure the context makes it clear why the figure is not precise. For example, you might explain that it's based on incomplete data or preliminary calculations.

Common error

Avoid presenting "an approximate figure" as if it were an exact value. Always acknowledge the degree of uncertainty or potential error associated with the number.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an approximate figure" serves as a qualifier, indicating that a numerical value provided is not exact but is reasonably close to the true value. It's used to introduce a number that's an estimation. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples across various fields.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

34%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Science & Research

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an approximate figure" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a non-exact numerical value. Ludwig AI analysis shows the phrase is commonly employed in scientific and news contexts to convey estimations where precise data is unavailable. While its frequency is considered uncommon, its meaning is clear, and its use is appropriate in neutral to formal settings. To avoid misinterpretation, clearly state why the figure is approximate and avoid presenting it as an exact value. Alternatives like "a rough estimate" or "a ballpark number" can be used for similar effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A rough estimate

Emphasizes the lack of precision and potential for inaccuracy.

An estimated value

Highlights that the figure has been calculated or predicted, but may not be exact.

A ballpark number

Suggests a very general and approximate quantity, often used informally.

A close approximation

Implies that the figure is near the actual value, though not perfectly accurate.

An educated guess

Indicates that the figure is based on some knowledge or reasoning, but is still not certain.

A tentative calculation

Suggests that the figure is subject to change or revision.

A projected amount

Focuses on the prediction of a future value, which may differ from the actual outcome.

An indicative figure

Signifies that the figure serves as a guide or indicator, rather than a definitive value.

An order of magnitude

Implies a broad, exponential level of estimation, often used in scientific contexts.

A rounded figure

Suggests that the number has been simplified for ease of use or understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "an approximate figure" to introduce a number that is not exact. For example: "The cost will be an approximate figure of $10000, but we'll provide a detailed estimate soon."

What's a good alternative to "an approximate figure"?

Alternatives include "a rough estimate", "an estimated value", or "a ballpark number", depending on the context and the level of precision you want to convey.

Is it better to say "approximate figure" or "exact figure" when the number isn't precise?

When the number isn't precise, use "approximate figure". "Exact figure" implies a precise and accurate value, which would be contradictory.

How does "an approximate figure" differ from "a precise number"?

"An approximate figure" indicates a value that is not exact but close enough for the situation. "A precise number" suggests a value that is exact and accurate, leaving no room for estimation.