close approximation

USAGE SUMMARY

"close approximation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to explain that something is very similar to something else, or is almost the same. For example, "This paint color is a close approximation of the original shade we were looking for."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

And it bears no close approximation to the truth.

The New York Times

A close approximation can be conjured up with Everclear, lemon zest and sugar syrup.

The New York Times - Magazine

Gabelfrühstück (GAH-bel-froosh-took is a close approximation) is not so insubstantial.

The New York Times - Travel

Revolving credit, a close approximation of credit card debt, totaled $939.6 billion in March.

The New York Times

Multiplying the tax by 909.1 will give a close approximation of the price.

The New York Times

Her chapters on Reed's youth vividly portray him as a close approximation of the monster liberals imagine.

The New York Times - Books

But he said that in his younger days that character was really a pretty close approximation to himself".

The New York Times

Of course, I use the numbers loosely, but they are a close approximation and illustrate the reality of breeding economics.

The New York Times

The Chebyshev parallel motion is a three-bar linkage that gives a very close approximation to exact rectilinear motion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Instead, Mr Das worked out a way to make a close approximation to the prices that result from the condition.

The Economist

The result is a close approximation of a street-style skating environment, with realistic features like granite and railings.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "close approximation", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being approximated and the degree of accuracy expected.

Common error

Avoid using "close approximation" when a precise measurement or calculation is required. This phrase implies a degree of inexactness, so it's unsuitable in contexts demanding high precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close approximation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI states that it indicates that something is very similar to something else or almost the same.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "close approximation" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that something is nearly, but not exactly, the same as something else. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's useful when absolute precision isn't required or available. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, particularly news, science, and encyclopedic content. When choosing alternative phrases, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid using "close approximation" when accuracy is paramount, and always clarify what is being approximated to ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approximate value

Highlights that the value isn't precise.

near equivalent

Highlights the functional similarity rather than a numerical value.

near estimate

Emphasizes that the value is an estimation, not exact.

reasonable match

Indicates an acceptable level of correspondence.

rough calculation

Focuses on the calculation being inexact.

ballpark figure

Indicates a general idea of a numerical value.

relative estimation

Changes focus to a comparison-based estimation.

good likeness

Refers to a resemblance in appearance or character.

fair resemblance

Suggests a moderate degree of similarity.

adjacent quantity

Emphasizes the numerical aspect of the closeness.

FAQs

How can I use "close approximation" in a sentence?

You can use "close approximation" to describe something that is nearly, but not exactly, the same as something else. For example, "The estimated cost is a "near estimate", serving as a close approximation of the final amount."

What phrases can I use instead of "close approximation"?

Alternatives include "near estimate", "ballpark figure", or "approximate value". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "close approximation" or "closest approximation"?

"Closest approximation" implies finding the very nearest value, while "close approximation" simply suggests a value that is near. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing the degree of closeness.

What's the difference between a "close approximation" and an "exact measurement"?

A "close approximation" is an estimated value that is near the true value, but not precise. An "exact measurement" is a precise value obtained through accurate measurement, leaving no room for estimation.