generous estimates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generous estimates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to estimates that are larger or more favorable than what might be considered typical or conservative. Example: "The contractor provided generous estimates for the project costs, allowing for unexpected expenses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

We think these are generous estimates for all but the smallest of businesses.

The Guardian - Opinion

Today some generous estimates put the number of bird watchers in the United States at about 70 million.

The New York Times - Arts

The extra income might add $20 billion to consumers' spending relatively quickly, according to generous estimates by economists.

The New York Times

And even the most generous estimates of today's Taliban insurgency suggest it is no more than 20,000 men.

The New York Times

By the most generous estimates, then, it seems the original Fire did not live up to expectations.

The New York Times

He was heartily cheered by the Spanish audience, and executives immediately got busy revising upwards their already generous estimates of the film's European box-office potential.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

He was, at a generous estimate, five feet seven.

The New Yorker

(I would put a generous estimate of the crowd at around four thousand).

The New Yorker

From pulling out of the European Union, which saves, at a generous estimate, £6.4bn a year".

The Guardian

Le Guin isn't alone in her generous estimate of literature's estate.

The New Yorker

Gaultier has, at a generous estimate, only around 200 couture clients.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "generous estimates", ensure the context clarifies whether the generosity is due to optimism, a buffer for error, or a deliberate overestimation. Be transparent about the reasoning behind the estimate's approach.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "generous estimates" are always accurate. Recognize that they might be intentionally inflated for various reasons, such as risk mitigation or securing funding, and adjust your interpretation accordingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generous estimates" primarily functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It serves to describe a type of estimation that is characterized by being higher or more lenient than a typical or conservative estimate. Ludwig AI confirms this expression is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "generous estimates" is a correct and commonly used phrase that describes estimations intentionally set on the higher side. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, academic, and business settings. When using this phrase, it's important to be clear about the intent and reasoning behind the estimate's approach, as it implies a non-conservative outlook. Alternatives such as "optimistic projections" or "liberal estimations" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Recognizing potential misinterpretations and ensuring transparency in its application will contribute to more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

liberal estimations

Emphasizes the broadness and leniency in the estimation process.

upper-bound estimates

Specifies that the estimates represent the highest likely value.

high-end approximations

Denotes estimations leaning towards the higher side of a range.

optimistic projections

Highlights the positive outlook reflected in the estimated figures.

ample appraisals

Focuses on the sufficiency and abundance in the estimated assessments.

favorable predictions

Indicates that the estimates are advantageous or desirable.

roomy calculations

Suggests the calculations allow for considerable margin or variance.

overstated forecasts

Implies the estimates are exaggerated or inflated.

inflated figures

Suggests the estimates are higher than what is realistic or justified.

expanded evaluations

Emphasizes a comprehensive and potentially inflated assessment.

FAQs

How can I use "generous estimates" in a sentence?

You can use "generous estimates" to describe predictions or calculations that are intentionally high or favorable. For example, "The company used "generous estimates" to project potential revenue growth."

What is a good alternative to "generous estimates"?

Alternatives include "optimistic projections", "liberal estimations", or "high-end approximations", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when estimates are described as "generous"?

Calling estimates "generous" typically means they are on the higher end of the possible range, often including a buffer for error or unexpected costs. It suggests a less conservative and potentially more favorable outlook.

Are "generous estimates" always reliable?

Not necessarily. While "generous estimates" might provide a comfortable margin, they are not always the most accurate. They can be influenced by various factors, including optimism or strategic planning, so it's important to critically evaluate their basis and assumptions.