extrapolate

/ɛkˈstræpəleɪt/

/ɛkˈstræpəleɪt/

Other forms: extrapolated; extrapolating; extrapolates

When you extrapolate, you use specific details to make a general conclusion. For example, if you travel to Canada and encounter only friendly, kind natives, you might extrapolate that all Canadians are friendly.

The verb extrapolate can mean "to predict future outcomes based on known facts." For example, looking at your current grade report for math and how you are doing in class now, you could extrapolate that you'll likely earn a solid B for the year. Another meaning of extrapolate is "estimate the value of." You could extrapolate how much your antique watch is worth by finding how much similar watches sold for at recent auctions.

Definitions of extrapolate

1. verb

   draw from specific cases for more general cases
   synonyms: generalise, generalize, infer

   types:

   overgeneralise, overgeneralize

   draw too general a conclusion

   universalise, universalize

   make universal

   type of:

   conclude, reason, reason out

   decide by reasoning; draw or come to a conclusion
2. verb

   estimate the value of
   synonyms: interpolate

   type of:

   calculate, cipher, compute, cypher, figure, reckon, work out

   make a mathematical calculation or computation
3. verb

   gain knowledge of (an area not known or experienced) by extrapolating
   type of:

   deduce, deduct, derive, infer

   reason by deduction; establish by deduction