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Approximation: meaning, definitions and examples

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approximation

 

[ əˌprɑːk.sɪˈmeɪ.ʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

An approximation is a value or quantity that is nearly but not exactly correct. It is an estimate of a value based on available information. Approximations are commonly used in mathematics and science when an exact value is difficult or impossible to obtain.

Synonyms

close guess, estimate, rough calculation

Examples of usage

  • The student used an approximation to simplify the math problem.
  • The scientist made an approximation of the speed of light for his calculations.
Context #2 | Noun

general

An approximation can also refer to a rough or imprecise version of something. It can be used to describe an approach that is close to the actual thing but not completely accurate.

Synonyms

imitation, near representation, rough version

Examples of usage

  • The painting was just an approximation of the artist's vision.
  • The new model is an approximation of the original design.

Translations

Translations of the word "approximation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aproximação

🇮🇳 अनुमान

🇩🇪 Annäherung

🇮🇩 pendekatan

🇺🇦 наближення

🇵🇱 przybliżenie

🇯🇵 近似

🇫🇷 approximation

🇪🇸 aproximación

🇹🇷 yaklaşım

🇰🇷 근사치

🇸🇦 تقريب

🇨🇿 přiblížení

🇸🇰 priblíženie

🇨🇳 近似

🇸🇮 približek

🇮🇸 nálgun

🇰🇿 жақындау

🇬🇪 დაახლოება

🇦🇿 yaxınlaşma

🇲🇽 aproximación

Etymology

The word 'approximation' originated in the late 15th century from the Latin word 'approximatus', meaning 'brought near'. It has been used in various fields such as mathematics, science, and general language to denote a value or quantity that is close to but not exactly equal to the actual value.

See also: approximately, approximating.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,851, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.