approximate number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "approximate number" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a number that is not exact but is close enough for practical purposes. Example: "The approximate number of attendees at the event was around 200."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Approximate number of pages: 340 What's it about?

The Guardian - Books

Either Approximate number of pages: 370 What's it about?

The Guardian - Books

Paper Approximate number of pages: 350 What's it about?

The Guardian - Books

Approximate number of pages: 400 pages (hardback) What's it about?

The Guardian - Books

Children's expectations about training the approximate number system.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Title Children's expectations about training the approximate number system.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Declare the approximate number of symbols expected in the package.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

3000 – Approximate number of honours awarded each year.

Independent

4,500 — Approximate number of drug tests that will be conducted.

The New York Times - Sports

Approximate number of pages: It's exactly 1,336 What's it about?

The Guardian - Books

89,500 Approximate number of personnel in the Afghan National Army.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "approximate number", ensure the context clarifies the degree of acceptable error. Is a close estimation needed, or is a general idea sufficient?

Common error

Avoid presenting an "approximate number" as if it were exact. Always acknowledge its estimated nature with phrases like "about", "around", or "approximately".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "approximate number" functions as a quantifier, modifying a noun to indicate an estimated or inexact quantity. Ludwig examples show it's used to convey a numerical value without claiming precision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

31%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "approximate number" is a grammatically correct and versatile way to refer to an estimated quantity. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely used across various domains, including news, academia, and science. While perfectly acceptable in most contexts, it's important to avoid presenting an "approximate number" as an exact value. Alternatives such as "estimated count" or "rough estimate" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to consider the context and the level of precision required when using or interpreting this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

estimated count

Focuses on the act of estimation rather than the number itself.

rough estimate

Emphasizes the lack of precision and potential for error.

close estimation

Indicates a relatively precise approximation.

ballpark figure

Implies a general and not necessarily accurate guess.

approximate amount

Substitutes "number" with "amount", often used for uncountable items.

estimated quantity

Replaces "number" with "quantity", appropriate when referring to measurable amounts.

guesstimate

A blend of "guess" and "estimate", suggesting informality and less precision.

order of magnitude

Refers to a power-of-ten estimate, indicating a broad approximation.

indicative figure

Highlights the suggestive nature of the number, rather than its accuracy.

nominal value

Emphasizes that the number is a stated or identified amount, which may not be the actual or real value

FAQs

How can I use "approximate number" in a sentence?

You can use "approximate number" when you want to refer to a number that is not exact, but close enough for practical purposes. For example: "The "approximate number" of attendees at the event was around 200."

What can I say instead of "approximate number"?

You can use alternatives like "estimated count", "rough estimate", or "ballpark figure" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "approximate number" or "estimated number"?

Both "approximate number" and "estimated number" are correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "approximate number" and "exact number"?

"Approximate number" refers to a value that is not precise but is close to the actual value, whereas "exact number" refers to a precise and accurate value. Knowing whether you need an estimation or an precise calculation is what will make you choose one over the other.