approximation

/əprɑksɪˈmeɪʃɪn/

/əprɒksɪˈmeɪʃən/

Other forms: approximations

An approximation is a rough estimate or guess at something. When you write a budget for the month, you're making an approximation of how much you're going to spend. You can't be certain of the exact amount.

Like approximately or proximity, approximation comes from the Latin proximus which means "nearest." An approximation is the nearest estimate you can get without having the precise size or measure of something. It's a ballpark figure. When you set out for work in the morning, the amount of time you give yourself to get there is an approximation. Depending on traffic and weather, you can never know exactly how long the trip will take.

Definitions of approximation

1. noun

   an approximate calculation of quantity or degree or worth
   synonyms: estimate, estimation, idea

   types:

   scalage

   estimation of the amount of lumber in a log

   credit, credit rating

   an estimate, based on previous dealings, of a person's or an organization's ability to fulfill their financial commitments

   dead reckoning, guess, guessing, guesswork, shot

   an estimate based on little or no information

   guesstimate, guestimate

   an estimate that combines reasoning with guessing

   overestimate, overestimation, overrating, overreckoning

   a calculation that results in an estimate that is too high

   underestimate, underestimation, underrating, underreckoning

   an estimation that is too low; an estimate that is less than the true or actual value

   type of:

   calculation, computation, figuring, reckoning

   problem solving that involves numbers or quantities
2. noun

   an imprecise or incomplete account
   “newspapers gave only an approximation of the actual events”

   type of:

   version

   an interpretation of a matter from a particular viewpoint
3. noun

   the quality of coming near to identity (especially close in quantity)
   type of:

   similarity

   the quality of being similar
4. noun

   the act of bringing near or bringing together especially the cut edges of tissue
   synonyms: bringing close together

   type of:

   connection, connexion, joining

   the act of bringing two things into contact (especially for communication)