original estimate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "original estimate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the initial calculation or assessment of a value, cost, or time required for a project or task. Example: "The original estimate for the project was $50,000, but costs have since increased."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The original estimate was £500m.

The Economist

The original estimate had been $135 million.

The New York Times

The original estimate had been 36,000.

The New York Times

The original estimate was $127,000, pledged by wealthy Jews.

The New Yorker

The original estimate for the windmills was about $200 million.

The New York Times

It netted the church $2.6 million, twice the original estimate.

The New York Times

The Painter's original estimate — seven days — seemed reasonable, even generous.

The New York Times

The lots went for four times the original estimate.

Independent

He said he was confident that Mr. Ferrer's original estimate was correct.

The New York Times

The retailer missed its original estimate for the last three months.

The New York Times

Imports decreased 7.6percentt, compared with an original estimate of a 6.6percentt decline.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "original estimate", clarify the context and what it refers to (e.g., cost, time, quantity) to avoid ambiguity. Always provide units and specifications.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone knows what the "original estimate" refers to. Always specify the subject (e.g., "original cost estimate", "original time estimate") to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "original estimate" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples show its use in discussing costs, timelines, and quantities. It describes an initial projection or calculation before actual results are known.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "original estimate" is a common noun phrase used to denote the initial projected value, quantity, or cost of something. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in News & Media. It serves primarily to provide a baseline for comparison. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what the estimate refers to. Alternatives include "initial projection" and "preliminary figure". While often used in formal contexts, its register remains fairly neutral. Understanding the context and potential for confusion helps ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

original forecast

Similar meaning but with a focus on prediction.

initial projection

Focuses on forecasting or predicting the initial value.

preliminary figure

Highlights the tentative or early nature of the number.

first budget

Specifically refers to the initial financial plan.

starting valuation

Emphasizes the initial assessment of worth or price.

early forecast

Highlights prediction based on preliminary data.

initial assessment

Focuses on the act of evaluating something at the beginning.

preliminary quotation

Emphasizes the initial price offered for a service or product.

initial price quote

Specifically indicates an initial offer for cost.

base expectation

Stresses the fundamental level of anticipated value.

FAQs

How can I use "original estimate" in a sentence?

You can use "original estimate" to refer to the initial projected amount for a project or task. For example, "The project's "original estimate" was $1 million, but it eventually cost $1.5 million."

What are some alternatives to saying "original estimate"?

Alternatives include "initial projection", "preliminary figure", or "early forecast", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to mention the "original estimate" when discussing project costs?

While not always necessary, mentioning the "original estimate" is helpful for providing context and highlighting any cost overruns or underruns. It allows for a clear comparison between the initial plan and the actual outcome.

What's the difference between "original estimate" and "revised estimate"?

The ""original estimate"" is the first projection made, while the "revised estimate" is a later projection that takes into account new information or changes in circumstances.