near approximation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "near approximation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a value or measurement that is close to, but not exactly, a specific figure or standard. Example: "The results of the experiment provided a near approximation of the expected outcomes, allowing us to draw preliminary conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Rather than criticise price reporters, he said, they should be defended for getting close to a near approximation of the real price.

The Guardian - Business

I finally hit the wall at a $3,900 nylon leopard-print raincoat, which was fetching, but I recalled once seeing a very near approximation of it packed in a Totes tube with a matching umbrella for around $32.

The New York Times

Mr. Penn revisits that premise with a near approximation of the album's cast, featuring Seamus Blake and Yosvany Terry on saxophones, Adam Rogers on guitar and James Genus on bass.

The New York Times - Arts

The value of θ was then used in conjunction with some of the information from the parameter estimates given in Tables 3 and 4. A near approximation of the exact relationship between the cell lifetime distributions and θ is given by: <img src="http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/asset?id=info?doi/10.1371/journal.pone.0004670.e004.PNG" class= inline-graphic"/> [23].

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

For a decade, I've been the nearest approximation she has to such a thing.

The Guardian

In other words, the impact of this tax on lending will be, to the nearest approximation, zero.

The New Yorker

Even its nearest approximation, Yodh, cannot be uttered in the tetragrammaton inscribing the name of God: "YHWH".

Independent

Above all, there was the church, or the parish, which offered the nearest approximation to the open, civil environments of today's public realm.

The New York Times - Arts

At present, the nearest approximation to a silicon brain involves making electronic circuits that behave like neurons, and connecting them up in small networks.

The Economist

He had failed basic training as an Israeli Defence Force commando, and his nearest approximation to spy work was as a lowly gate guard for the airline El Al in New York in the early 70s.

The Guardian - Film

Only now, some years after Donald Cammell's suicide in 1996, have Mazzola and Kong been able to re-build the nearest approximation possible of the original work, using the late director's notes.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "near approximation", ensure the context clearly indicates the degree of acceptable error or deviation. For example, specify whether it's within 5%, 10%, etc.

Common error

Avoid using "near approximation" when a precise measurement or calculation is required or available. It's best suited for situations where an exact value is difficult or impossible to obtain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "near approximation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI indicates its acceptability. It describes something that closely resembles or approaches a specific value or condition, as seen in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "near approximation" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe something that closely resembles a specific value but isn't exact. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Its frequency is rare, but commonly used in Science and News & Media sources. When writing, ensure the context indicates the acceptable degree of error. Common synonyms include "close estimate" and "rough calculation". Avoid overstating accuracy by specifying the level of precision when using this phrase. In conclusion, this phrase is a valuable tool for specifying estimations with a known degree of inexactness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

close estimate

This term suggests a calculation that is not exact but sufficiently accurate.

approximate value

Highlights that the value is not exact, but reasonably close.

estimated figure

Implies the figure is based on judgment or incomplete data.

rough calculation

Indicates a quick, imprecise way of getting an approximate answer.

approximate solution

Focuses on finding a solution that is functionally adequate, without needing to be precise.

ballpark figure

Refers to an approximate number or value used as a general guide.

near equivalent

Indicates something that has almost the same function or effect.

close resemblance

Suggests similarity in appearance or qualities, rather than a numerical estimation.

close parallel

Suggests strong similarity or correspondence between things.

loose estimation

Stresses the inexact nature of the estimation, highlighting potential error.

FAQs

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

You can use "near approximation" to describe a value or result that's close but not exactly equal to a target. For example, "The model provided a "near approximation" of the actual market behavior."

What are some alternatives to "near approximation"?

Consider using alternatives like "close estimate", "rough calculation", or "ballpark figure" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "near approximation" and "rough estimate"?

"Near approximation" implies a higher degree of accuracy than "rough estimate". A rough estimate is less precise and suitable for situations where only a general idea is needed.

When is it appropriate to use "near approximation"?

Use "near approximation" when you have a value that is reasonably close to the true value but not exact, and when specifying that level of precision is important. If the value is far from the true result, consider "crude approximation" instead.