best estimate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "best estimate" is correct and commonly used in written English.
You might use this phrase when making a prediction or offering an opinion that is not definitive, but is based on available evidence. For example, "Based on the data we collected, our best estimate is that three out of four people prefer this product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Its best estimate was A$3.5 billion.

The Economist

Thousands were the best estimate.

The New York Times - Sports

The family's best estimate is 12.

The New York Times

That would be your best estimate.

Yale University

What's your best estimate of Turkey's population?

Harvard Business Review

"This is the best estimate we can provide right now".

The New York Times

It happens to be the best estimate that we have.

The New York Times

Unger added, "Our best estimate is several hundred million".

The New Yorker

This is our best estimate, based on the latest evidence.

The Guardian

"Our best estimate at present is $150 million".

The New York Times

You know, it's your best estimate of the situation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "best estimate", clarify the basis for your estimation. Mention the data, methods, or assumptions that informed your judgment to enhance credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "best estimate" as a definitive fact. Frame it as an approximation to acknowledge the inherent uncertainty, using phrases like 'approximately' or 'in the range of'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "best estimate" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its usage in expressing a judgment or calculation based on available data, as seen in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "best estimate" is a versatile phrase used to present a calculated judgment or prediction based on the most accurate data available. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and very common across various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and science. When using "best estimate", it's crucial to provide context for the estimation and avoid presenting it as an absolute fact. Alternatives like "closest approximation" or "most accurate assessment" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to always strive for clarity and transparency in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closest approximation

This alternative focuses on the nearness to an actual value, emphasizing the degree of accuracy achieved.

most accurate assessment

This alternative highlights the evaluation aspect, emphasizing the accuracy of the assessment made.

finest calculation

This alternative emphasizes the precision and attention to detail used in determining the estimate.

most reliable prediction

This alternative shifts the focus to forecasting, emphasizing the dependability of the predicted outcome.

considered judgment

This alternative emphasizes the thoughtful and careful deliberation behind the estimate.

informed guess

This alternative acknowledges the element of conjecture involved, while also highlighting that it's based on knowledge.

educated prediction

Similar to 'informed guess', this highlights that the prediction is derived from considerable knowledge and learning.

expert valuation

This alternative implies that a professional with considerable experience has determined the estimate.

tentative assessment

This implies the assessment is not final but is provisional based on the current information available.

preliminary calculation

This alternative stresses the early nature of the calculation, suggesting it may be refined later.

FAQs

How can I use "best estimate" in a sentence?

You can use "best estimate" when presenting a calculation or judgment based on the most accurate information available. For example, "Our "best estimate" for the project's completion is late December".

What phrases can I use instead of "best estimate"?

Alternatives include "closest approximation", "most accurate assessment", or "most reliable prediction", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "best estimate" in formal writing?

Yes, "best estimate" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing projections, data analysis, or risk assessment. It conveys professionalism while acknowledging inherent uncertainty. However, avoid being overly casual.

What's the difference between "best estimate" and "rough guess"?

"Best estimate" implies a level of rigor and analysis using available data, whereas "rough guess" suggests a more casual, less informed approximation. Use "best estimate" when precision and accuracy are important.