rough calculation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rough calculation" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means an approximate or estimated calculation, rather than an exact or precise one. Example: "After a rough calculation, I estimated that the project would cost around $10,000." In this sentence, the speaker is using a rough calculation to give a general idea of the project's cost, but they may not have all the exact numbers and details at hand. This phrase can be used in various contexts, such as in financial planning, mathematical problem-solving, or even in casual conversation.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I made a rough calculation.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is a bit of a rough calculation.

The Economist

So as a very rough calculation, maybe multiply $7.5 trillion by five years by 365 days.

The Washington Post

Let's work through a rough calculation of the number of Sun-like stars in the Universe.

Cornell University

At a rough calculation the total payout would be several millions at least.

The Guardian

"We can do a rough calculation of the likely costs," Mr. Spratt said in an interview.

The New York Times

We had a rough calculation it was going to cost us millions of dollars".

The New York Times - Arts

Radcliffe's rough calculation gives a sense of the cost reduction Tesla will need before consumers will consider buying the product.

The Guardian

With 220 million Americans using Facebook each month, it's fair to take half that number for this rough calculation.

The Washington Post

I've done a very rough calculation on what Monday's fall in stocks might do to consumer spending.

The New York Times

The 2011 census recorded 140 million rooms in the UK: a rough calculation says 85 million of those are bedrooms.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rough calculation", acknowledge its limitations. Follow it with phrases like "approximately" or "about" to manage expectations about its accuracy.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "rough calculation" as a precise figure. Always clarify that it is an estimation to prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rough calculation" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., "do a rough calculation", "make a rough calculation"). It describes the act of performing an estimation, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

24%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rough calculation" is a common way to describe an approximate estimation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage across various contexts. While versatile, it's best to acknowledge its inherent imprecision and, when needed, prefer more formal alternatives like "approximate calculation", especially in professional settings. Using the phrase appropriately ensures clarity and manages expectations regarding the accuracy of your estimations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approximate calculation

A more formal way to say "rough calculation", indicating an inexact but close value.

rough estimate

Similar to "rough calculation" but focuses on the result rather than the process. Changes the focus on the final result

preliminary calculation

Indicates an initial calculation that might be refined later with more data. Focus on its initial nature.

ballpark estimate

Emphasizes a very approximate calculation, often used in business contexts. Strong focus on estimation.

quick calculation

Emphasizes the speed at which the calculation is performed. Focuses on swiftness.

back-of-the-envelope calculation

Suggests a quick, informal calculation done without precise tools. Focuses on informality and speed.

general estimate

Indicates a broad, non-specific estimation. Highlights lack of specificity.

crude calculation

Highlights the simplicity and lack of precision in the calculation. Highlights the low complexity.

cursory calculation

Suggests a calculation performed quickly and without thoroughness. Focus on lack of depth.

order-of-magnitude estimate

Focuses on estimating the power of ten closest to the actual value. Indicates a broad estimate.

FAQs

How do I use "rough calculation" in a sentence?

You can use "rough calculation" to indicate an approximate estimate, as in, "After a rough calculation, I believe we can complete the project on time."

What's a good alternative to "rough calculation"?

Alternatives include "approximate calculation", "ballpark estimate", or "rough estimate", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "rough calculation" in formal writing?

While acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "approximate calculation" in professional or academic contexts. Adding a disclaimer about the calculation's precision can also help.

What does it mean when someone says they did a "back-of-the-envelope calculation"?

It means they did a quick, informal "rough calculation", likely without precise data or tools. It implies the result is an initial estimate rather than a definitive answer.