rough calculations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rough calculations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to estimations or approximations that are not precise but provide a general idea of a value or outcome. Example: "After making some rough calculations, we estimate that the project will cost around $50,000."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But some rough calculations are possible.

The New Yorker

I did some rough calculations and I was gobsmacked.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The breakdown of bonuses is not known, but rough calculations of the windfalls are possible.

The New York Times

But here are some rough calculations: Wells Fargo has about seventy million customers.

The New Yorker

Mr. Feinberg has already unveiled his rough calculations of a person's worth and lost income.

The New York Times

This is, by my (very) rough calculations, my 175th Noises off blog.

The Guardian

I've made some rough calculations for greater Atlanta, which has come to epitomize urban sprawl.

The New York Times

By his rough calculations, he had to be at least seven million miles from where he cast off.

The New Yorker

Kelemen has rough calculations of how much it might cost to pull carbon dioxide out of the air.

The New Yorker

Note: our estimates on yield are rough calculations based on figures from the Treasury and the Institute for Fiscal Studies.

The Guardian

iPad Ravensburger's new iOS game is based on what my (rough) calculations is the 874th game designed by Dr. Reiner Knizia.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rough calculations", specify the basis or method used for the calculation to provide context and increase credibility. For instance, "Based on rough calculations of market trends...".

Common error

Avoid presenting "rough calculations" as precise or definitive. Clearly indicate the approximate nature of the figures to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rough calculations" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to estimations or approximations made without precise data or methods, as demonstrated in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rough calculations" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to indicate estimations or approximations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's prevalent in news, scientific, and business contexts, suggesting a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure you provide adequate context and avoid overstating the accuracy of the figures. Alternatives like "approximate calculations" or "estimated figures" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to present the estimations clearly and honestly to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approximate calculations

Emphasizes the inexact nature of the calculations.

estimated figures

Focuses on the numerical result being an estimate.

ballpark figures

Suggests a very general, order-of-magnitude estimate.

back-of-the-envelope calculations

Implies informal and quick calculations, often done without precise tools.

preliminary estimates

Highlights that the estimates are subject to change with further analysis.

crude estimates

Implies the estimates are basic and potentially inaccurate.

order-of-magnitude estimates

Focuses on the power of ten rather than the exact value.

initial calculations

Highlights that the calculations are the first attempt, and may need refinement.

rule-of-thumb estimations

Emphasizes estimations based on practical experience rather than rigorous methods.

basic calculations

Highlights that the calculations performed are simple, without deep analysis.

FAQs

How can I use "rough calculations" in a sentence?

You can use "rough calculations" to introduce an estimation or approximation, such as, "According to our "rough calculations", the project should be completed within six months."

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

Alternatives include "approximate calculations", "estimated figures", or "ballpark figures", depending on the context and desired level of precision.

When is it appropriate to use "rough calculations" in writing?

Use "rough calculations" when you need to provide an estimate but lack precise data or when a detailed analysis is not necessary. It's suitable for preliminary assessments or quick estimations.

How do "rough calculations" differ from precise calculations?

"Rough calculations" involve estimations and approximations, while precise calculations aim for accuracy using exact data and methods. Using "approximate calculations" is useful for quick assessments, whereas precise calculations are necessary for detailed analysis and critical decision-making.