approximately what size

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "approximately what size" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when inquiring about the estimated dimensions or measurements of an object or item. Example: "Can you tell me approximately what size the package will be when it arrives?"

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Doing this will let you see if everything matches and approximately what size writing must be as well as the best placement for your decorations.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Think about what size hamster you want.

WikiHow

What size?

The New York Times

What size pieces?

The New York Times - Food

What size might it be?

Independent

What size eggs?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But what size?

The New Yorker

"What size?" " 'Levens," Hemingway said bashfully.

The New Yorker

I failed to ask what size.

The New Yorker

"What size are your feet?" Moore asked.

The New Yorker

"What size shoe?" she asked.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking about dimensions in a professional setting, use "approximately what size" to convey a need for estimation rather than precise measurement.

Common error

Avoid using "approximately what size" when precise measurements are required. This phrase implies a degree of estimation and may not be suitable for contexts needing exactness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "approximately what size" functions as an interrogative phrase used to inquire about the estimated dimensions or measurements of something. As Ludwig explains, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "approximately what size" is a grammatically correct interrogative phrase used to inquire about estimated dimensions. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability. While not extremely common, the phrase is versatile across contexts, with a neutral register that fits informal to semi-formal communications. When precision isn't paramount, this phrase offers a practical way to ask for a general sense of scale or measurement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

What is the approximate size?

Reorders the phrase for a slightly more direct question.

What's the rough size?

Uses "rough" as a synonym for "approximate", making it slightly less formal.

What size is it, give or take?

Adds "give or take" to indicate a flexible estimate.

About how big is it?

Uses "how big" for simplicity, suitable for informal contexts.

What are the approximate dimensions?

Focuses on specific measurements rather than a general size.

Could you give me an estimated size?

More polite and formal, asking for an estimation.

What is its general size?

Uses "general" to imply a non-specific answer.

How large would you say it is?

Asks for a subjective assessment of the size.

What is the size range?

Inquires about a possible spectrum of sizes rather than a single value.

What would be a fair size estimate?

Asks for a reasonable estimation of the size.

FAQs

How can I use "approximately what size" in a sentence?

You can use "approximately what size" when you need an estimated measurement or dimension. For example, "Approximately what size should the shipping box be for these items?"

What is a less formal way to ask "approximately what size" something is?

Less formal alternatives include "about how big" or "roughly what size".

What's the difference between "approximately what size" and "exactly what size"?

"Approximately what size" implies an estimate is acceptable, while "exactly what size" requires a precise measurement.

Is "approximately what size" appropriate for technical specifications?

No, in technical specifications, precise measurements are usually required. Avoid using "approximately what size" in such contexts and opt for specific units of measure.