calculated guess

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "calculated guess" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to an educated guess or estimate, typically one that is based upon past experience or research. For example, "I made a calculated guess that there would be around 50 people at the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

They provide, at best, a calculated guess.

Forbes

Mayor Jennifer Roberts (D) defended the move, saying it "should in no way be viewed as a compromise of our principles or commitment to non-discrimination". "They made a calculated guess about whether this was going to work," said James Esseks, director of the ACLU's LGBT and HIV Project.

Huffington Post

Sometimes you may want to take a calculated guess at an answer or delete one of the answers you are not 100% of to make use of a shortcut.

WikiHow

It might come down to a hunch, a feeling, a calculated guess more than form or pedigree.

Independent

But what we see on television is usually just a representation, or a calculated guess, based on thermal imaging, sound, or the work of cameras tracking an object's velocity through air.

The New Yorker

It felt like they were dragging me along in front of the sharks waiting for the right moment to let go.' But the main reason his identification evidence was called into question was because Sergeant Christopher Crowley had claimed Duwayne confessed to him that he had made a calculated guess at one of the identification parades.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

So the bravest make calculated guesses and charge like hell into the fog of war.

Forbes

We calculated a guessing probability using the method described in Howe and Webb (2014).

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

The adjusted spectra validated quantitatively the Monte Carlo deuteron-lithium (d-Li) neutron source model code (MCDeLi) which was used to calculate initial guess spectra and also has been used for IFMIF nuclear designs.

Fusion Engineering and Design

On Ms. Baldwin it looks cerebral, calculated; you might guess that she's the choreographer.

The New York Times - Arts

We calculate a guessing probability for the ROA localisation data, as this already takes into account any slight imprecisions in the localisation responses, giving the most accurate view of localisation information at a summary level.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "calculated guess" when you want to convey that an estimation is not arbitrary but is based on available information and analysis.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "calculated guess" as a certain outcome. While the phrase implies a degree of informed reasoning, it's still a guess and should be presented with appropriate caveats.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "calculated guess" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., 'make a "calculated guess"') or as a subject complement. Ludwig shows that it describes an estimation based on some degree of reasoning or information.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "calculated guess" is a noun phrase signifying an estimate or prediction that is not entirely random but is informed by a degree of knowledge or analysis. As Ludwig indicates, its grammatical status is correct, and it appears in a range of contexts, including news, science, and general discussions. When using the phrase, it's important to ensure that the estimation is indeed based on some available information and is not presented as a definitive outcome. Synonyms such as "educated estimate" or "informed prediction" can be used depending on the context. While versatile, it's crucial to maintain neutrality and avoid overstating the certainty of the estimate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

educated estimate

Implies a guess based on some knowledge or learning, suggesting more information than just a guess.

informed prediction

Emphasizes the predictive aspect, suggesting the guess is based on relevant data or insights.

reasoned estimation

Highlights the logical thinking and justification behind the estimation.

strategic assumption

Suggests the guess is part of a broader plan or strategy, rather than a simple estimation.

prudent forecast

Implies caution and careful consideration in making the prediction.

deliberate speculation

Suggests the guess is a result of careful deliberation and thought.

analytical projection

Highlights the use of analytical methods in making the projection.

considered judgment

Emphasizes the careful weighing of factors before arriving at the guess.

tactical assessment

Suggests the guess is part of a tactical plan and is used for evaluation and decision-making.

well-thought-out hypothesis

Suggests the guess is formulated as a hypothesis based on prior knowledge and careful consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "calculated guess" in a sentence?

You can use "calculated guess" when describing an estimate based on available information and some reasoning. For example, "Based on the current market trends, my "calculated guess" is that the stock price will increase."

What is a synonym for "calculated guess"?

Synonyms for "calculated guess" include "educated estimate", "informed prediction", or "reasoned estimation". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to make a "calculated guess" or a random guess?

A "calculated guess" is generally preferable to a random guess, as it implies that some level of analysis or information has been considered. However, the accuracy of the guess still depends on the quality of the information and reasoning used.

How does a "calculated guess" differ from a hypothesis?

While both involve making an assumption, a "calculated guess" is often a more informal estimate. A hypothesis, on the other hand, is a more formal and testable statement, typically used in scientific or research contexts.