by estimation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by estimation" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is often used to indicate that an amount or number was not precisely measured, but rather estimated. Example: The total cost of completing the project was estimated to be around $1,000 by estimation.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The imputation followed by estimation was repeated six times for each simulated dataset and the estimates reported were calculated according to the equations in (4).

AAPS Journal

For example, one could now study variation between or within populations quantitatively, rather than simply by estimation or guesswork.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The other state variables are obtained by estimation process.

Energy Procedia

This difference cannot be explained by estimation errors.

Earth, Planets and Space

By estimation, only about 10% of PhDs will ultimately end up with a permanent post in academia.

Science Magazine

By estimation, 21% of subjects and 15% of controls had postpartum hemorrhage (P =.17).

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

The fatigue characteristics of the critical location had to be established by estimation.

Procedia Structural Integrity

EPE was calculated by estimation of P/C ratio in random urine sample.

Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice

The blob set is represented as a model by estimation of Gaussian mixture model (GMM).

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Black-border constraints are modeled as linear inequalities and solved by estimation projection.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is usually determined by estimation of iothalamate (IOT) clearance.

Chemistry Central Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by estimation", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being estimated and the basis for the estimation. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the validity of your statement.

Common error

Avoid presenting estimations "by estimation" as precise figures. Clearly indicate that the value is an approximation to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by estimation" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying how a determination or calculation was made. It indicates that the result was derived through approximation rather than precise measurement, as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

96%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by estimation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that serves as an adverbial modifier, indicating an approximate calculation. According to Ludwig, its primary function is to convey that a value has been determined through approximation rather than precise measurement. The phrase is most frequently found in scientific and formal contexts. When using "by estimation", ensure clarity by specifying what is being estimated and the basis for the estimation, and avoid presenting estimations as precise values. Consider alternatives such as "approximately" or ""roughly"" in less formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by approximation

Focuses on the method of approximating rather than the estimated value itself.

approximately

Indicates a close but not exact amount or value; more direct.

roughly

Similar to 'approximately', implying a lack of precision.

about

A simpler way to indicate an approximate quantity.

based on estimates

Highlights the use of estimates as the foundation for a conclusion.

in the vicinity of

More formal way of indicating approximation, often used for quantities or locations.

on the order of

Used to indicate the magnitude or scale of a value.

via educated guess

Implies some expertise or knowledge informs the estimation process.

as a rough guess

Implies a quick and informal estimation, likely without detailed analysis.

judging by appearances

Suggests an assessment based on observable qualities, not precise measurement.

FAQs

How can I use "by estimation" in a sentence?

You can use "by estimation" to indicate that a value or quantity is approximate rather than precisely measured. For example, "The project's completion date, "roughly" six months from now, was determined by estimation".

What are some alternatives to saying "by estimation"?

Alternatives include "approximately", "roughly", or "about". The best choice depends on the level of formality and the specific context. "The cost was "approximately" $1000".

When is it appropriate to use "by estimation"?

It is appropriate when you need to provide a value but do not have precise data. It's common in initial planning stages or when precise measurement is not feasible.

Is "by estimation" formal or informal?

"By estimation" is generally suitable for formal and semi-formal contexts. In very informal settings, simpler terms like "about" or ""roughly"" might be preferable.