an approximation of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an approximation of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a value, measurement, or concept that is close to but not exactly equal to something else. Example: "The scientist provided an approximation of the total population based on the available data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

You have an approximation of marriage.

The New York Times

It was an approximation of sobbing.

The Guardian

History is always just an approximation of the past.

The New York Times - Books

Any hotelier can provide an approximation of luxury.

The Guardian - Travel

I'm always tenaciously trying an approximation of normalcy.

The Guardian

Buck and Caray have called it an approximation of reality.

The New York Times - Sports

A creeping tightness slinking across the chest and gut is an approximation of the actual sensation.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Administration officials should do that themselves and send us an approximation of the cost".

The New York Times

This is an approximation of reality that is no longer accurate and started to break down.

The Guardian

The square has been recreated as an approximation of what stood there before the war.

The Guardian - Travel

Once she resembles an approximation of her younger self, however, her spirits soar.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an approximation of", specify the basis or method used to derive the approximation for clarity and context. For example, "The study provides an approximation of the species population based on sampling data".

Common error

Avoid implying a higher level of accuracy than is warranted when using "an approximation of". Be clear about the limitations and potential range of error in your approximation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an approximation of" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase indicating that something is nearly, but not exactly, equal or equivalent to something else. As shown in Ludwig, it is often used to describe calculations, models, or representations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an approximation of" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates something is nearly, but not exactly, equal or equivalent to something else. According to Ludwig, its versatility extends across various contexts, though it is particularly prevalent in news, science, and formal business settings. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and is used to convey an inexactness while still providing a useful or indicative value or description. When using "an approximation of", it's important to specify the basis or method used to derive the approximation for clarity, and avoid overstating the precision of the value.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a close estimate of

Indicates a slightly higher degree of accuracy than "a rough estimate of", yet still not exact.

a rough estimate of

Implies a less precise calculation or judgment compared to "an approximation of".

a representation of

Focuses on how something is depicted or presented, not necessarily exact.

a likeness of

Focuses more on the similarity in appearance or form rather than a numerical value.

a semblance of

Suggests an outward appearance or imitation, potentially lacking substance.

an estimate for

Directly relates to a numerical or quantitative assessment that is not exact.

a facsimile of

Implies a copy or reproduction, often not perfect but aiming for similarity.

a provisional figure for

Refers to a number that could change, focusing on the number being temporary.

a simulation of

Refers to a model or imitation used to represent real conditions or situations.

a general idea of

Implies a basic understanding or concept without precise details.

FAQs

How do I use "an approximation of" in a sentence?

Use "an approximation of" to indicate that a value or description is close to, but not exactly, the true value or complete description. For instance, "The model provides "an approximation of" future climate conditions".

What can I say instead of "an approximation of"?

You can use alternatives like "a rough estimate of", "a close estimate of", or "a likeness of" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "an approximation of" instead of an exact value?

Use "an approximation of" when the exact value is unknown, difficult to obtain, or unnecessary for the purpose. It's useful when a close-enough representation suffices, such as estimating quantities or describing complex phenomena.

What's the difference between "an approximation of" and "an estimation of"?

While both phrases suggest a non-exact value, "an approximation of" often implies that the value is derived through a simplified method or model, whereas "an estimation of" can refer to a more general or subjective assessment.