quick calculation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quick calculation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a simple or fast mathematical computation or estimation. Example: "After a quick calculation, I realized that we would need more resources to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Numerous online BMI calculators are available for quick calculation or you can run the numbers yourself (weight in pounds times 703 divided by the square of your height in inches).

WikiHow

It was a quick calculation.

The New York Times - Style

My brother did a quick calculation.

The New Yorker

A quick calculation later and the mistake is realised.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He did a quick calculation in his head.

The Guardian - Sport

I did a quick calculation in my head.

The New York Times - Health

"A cappuccino and scone?" Lane made a quick calculation.

The New York Times - Magazine

I hung up and made a quick calculation.

The New York Times - Health

A quick calculation showed I was getting almost 41 miles per gallon.

The New York Times

A quick calculation: Good for business: get book mentioned in the Murdoch hacking scandal.

The New Yorker

"I stupidly gave one quick calculation in my head and unfortunately I gave the wrong calculation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precision is important, avoid "quick calculation" and opt for terms like "detailed analysis" or "precise computation".

Common error

Don't use "quick calculation" when the context demands accuracy. This phrase suggests an estimate, not a rigorous analysis. Ensure your word choice aligns with the level of precision required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quick calculation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act of performing a rapid mathematical computation or estimation. Ludwig AI suggests that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

20%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quick calculation" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a rapid, often approximate, mathematical computation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, particularly news and media, and serves to convey efficiency and a degree of estimation in the calculation process. While versatile, it should be avoided in contexts demanding precision. Alternatives such as "rough estimate" or "fast estimate" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Using "quick calculation" suggests an informal analysis based on readily available information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fast estimate

Highlights the speed and approximate nature of the calculation.

rapid computation

Emphasizes speed in performing mathematical operations.

swift estimation

Combines speed with the approximate nature of estimation.

rough estimate

Emphasizes approximation rather than precise computation.

approximate computation

Stresses that the calculation provides an approximate result.

snap calculation

Suggests an immediate and effortless calculation.

back-of-the-envelope calculation

Highlights informality and speed of the calculation.

on-the-spot calculation

Emphasizes that the calculation is done immediately, without preparation.

mental arithmetic

Focuses on performing calculations in one's head.

cursory computation

Implies a very brief and not thorough calculation.

FAQs

How can I use "quick calculation" in a sentence?

You can use "quick calculation" to describe a fast estimation or computation, such as, "After a "quick calculation", I realized we didn't have enough resources."

What is a good substitute for "quick calculation"?

Alternatives include "rough estimate", "fast estimate", or "back-of-the-envelope calculation" depending on the context.

Is "quick calculation" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "quick calculation" leans towards informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using phrases like "preliminary analysis" or "expedited computation" for a more professional tone.

What does it mean when someone says they did a "quick calculation"?

It typically means they performed a fast, often approximate, mathematical computation, usually mentally or with minimal tools, to arrive at an estimate or decision.