solid estimate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "solid estimate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a reliable or well-founded approximation of a value or quantity. Example: "After reviewing the project details, we were able to provide a solid estimate of the costs involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Counting birds on the lek in the spring gave biologists a solid estimate of numbers.

The New York Times - Science

Charley Von Bergen of the Marines guessed that 500 soldiers had been involved in one way or another, but he conceded that there was no solid estimate.

The New York Times

By default, that should reveal a solid estimate on how much of the annual legal catch is being illegally diverted to Asia instead.

The Guardian

But a solid estimate of the impacts here is often hard to come by, and a lot depends on the assumptions used in these economic models.

The Washington Post

The new intelligence reports suggest that they could develop such a weapon in less than a year, but some officials warn that that assessment represents what one called "a best guess rather than a solid estimate".

The New York Times

Scientists put every one of those numbers in play Thursday as they struggled to come up with a solid estimate of how much oil is gushing each day from the black geyser at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Having a detailed plan and getting solid estimates from subcontractors paid off.

The New York Times

But that report wasn't devised to provide solid estimates in fine-grained geographic detail.

The New York Times

It starts with solid estimating and continues with excellent PM oversight.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Other officials said they did not have any solid estimates but described losses to tax frauds as significant and increasing.

The New York Times

They have no solid estimates on the numbers of such cases but put them in the dozens each year nationwide.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "solid estimate", ensure the context provides some indication of the basis for the estimate. For example, mention the data or methodology used to arrive at the figure.

Common error

Avoid using "solid estimate" when the estimate is based on highly speculative or unreliable data. Instead, qualify the estimate as preliminary or tentative to manage expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solid estimate" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "solid" modifies the noun "estimate". It describes the quality of the estimate, indicating its reliability and accuracy. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

36%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "solid estimate" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a reliable or well-founded approximation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It's often found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, implying a trustworthy calculation. While "solid estimate" conveys confidence, it's important to use it judiciously, ensuring the estimate is genuinely based on reliable data. Alternatives like "reliable estimation" or "accurate assessment" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reliable estimation

Replaces the adjective with a synonym while maintaining the noun form, focusing on dependability.

accurate assessment

Substitutes both words with synonyms, emphasizing precision and judgment.

dependable approximation

Changes the noun to a synonym that suggests a close but not necessarily exact value.

well-founded calculation

Indicates that the estimate is based on sound reasoning or evidence.

credible projection

Replaces estimate with a word that implies forecasting based on available data.

sound valuation

Indicates that the estimate is of something's worth and it is well reasoned.

trustworthy forecast

Similar to credible projection but with a focus on future prediction.

valid guesstimate

A less formal, but still acceptable alternative, implying an educated guess.

substantiated figure

Implies the estimate is backed by evidence and support.

evidence-based prediction

Highlights the use of data and evidence in creating the estimate.

FAQs

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

You can use "solid estimate" to describe a reliable approximation of a value or quantity. For example, "After reviewing the data, we were able to provide a "solid estimate" of the costs involved."

What are some alternatives to saying "solid estimate"?

You can use alternatives like "reliable estimation", "accurate assessment", or "dependable approximation" depending on the context.

What makes an estimate "solid"?

A "solid estimate" implies that the approximation is based on reliable data, sound methodology, and careful consideration, making it more trustworthy than a mere guess. Therefore, it has a higher degree of accuracy and dependability.

Is it always appropriate to use the term "solid estimate"?

No, it's best used when there is a reasonable basis for the estimate. If the estimate is highly speculative or based on limited information, it's better to use terms like "preliminary estimate" or "rough estimate" to avoid overstating its reliability.