Calculation: meaning, definitions and examples

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calculation

 

[ ˌkælkyəˈleɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

The process of using mathematics to find an answer, such as the result of adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing numbers.

Synonyms

computation, estimation, reckoning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
calculation

Used for precise mathematical or logical processes, often involving formulas or detailed steps. Common in scientific, financial, and technical settings.

  • She performed the calculation to determine the total cost
  • The engineer’s calculation confirmed the structure's safety
computation

Typically refers to mathematical operations, especially done by computers or calculative tools. Used in technology and computer science fields.

  • The computation of the algorithm took several seconds
  • Advanced computations are necessary for accurate weather predictions
reckoning

Often has a more informal or conversational tone and can carry a sense of judgment or conclusion. Sometimes used negatively or in historical/literary contexts.

  • By his reckoning, the project would take two weeks to finish
  • In the final reckoning, their efforts were not enough
estimation

Used when giving an approximate value or judgment, often when exact numbers are unknown or impractical to determine. It is common in everyday situations and planning.

  • Her estimation of the crowd size was around 500 people
  • The contractor provided an estimation for the renovation costs

Examples of usage

  • Her calculation of the total cost was incorrect.
  • The calculation involved complex algebraic equations.
  • We need to double-check our calculations before finalizing the report.
Context #2 | Noun

planning

A careful plan or decision about what to do in a particular situation, especially when you have to think about the effects of your actions in the future.

Synonyms

assessment, consideration, evaluation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
calculation

Typically used in mathematical or scientific contexts where numbers or precise values are involved.

  • He made a quick calculation to estimate the total cost
  • The calculation of the trajectory was crucial for the mission
assessment

Often used in educational, organizational, or professional settings to refer to the process of evaluating performance, quality, or the condition of something.

  • The teacher's assessment of the students' projects was thorough
  • We need an assessment of the building’s safety standards
evaluation

Common in contexts where detailed analysis or judgement is required, often involving both qualitative and quantitative measures.

  • The company’s performance evaluation system is very rigorous
  • She submitted her evaluation of the new software to the project manager
consideration

Used when discussing the process of thinking carefully about something, especially decisions, ideas, or future plans.

  • After careful consideration, she decided to take the job offer
  • There are many factors to take into consideration when planning a vacation

Examples of usage

  • She made a calculation to invest in real estate.
  • His calculations about the market proved to be accurate.
  • We need to make some calculations before expanding the business.
Context #3 | Noun

deception

A scheme or plan made for a specific purpose, often with the intention to deceive someone.

Synonyms

conspiracy, plot, scheme.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
calculation

Used to describe the process of using mathematics, especially for figuring out answers or making plans.

  • The calculation for the budget took the entire afternoon.
  • She was known for her quick mental calculation.
plot

Often used to describe the main events of a story, but when referring to plans, it generally means a secret plan to do something harmful or unlawful. This can have a negative connotation.

  • The plot of the novel was intricate and engaging.
  • Several people were involved in the plot to rob the bank.
scheme

Can mean a large-scale systematic plan or arrangement for attaining a particular goal or putting a particular idea into effect. When referring to secret plans, it often has a negative connotation.

  • The company introduced a new scheme to improve customer service.
  • They uncovered a scheme to defraud the investors.
conspiracy

Used to describe a secret plan made by a group to do something harmful or illegal. This word has a negative connotation.

  • They were arrested for their role in the conspiracy to overthrow the government.
  • The movie is about a conspiracy to hide the truth from the public.

Examples of usage

  • His calculation to cheat on the exam was discovered.
  • The calculation to manipulate the data was unethical.
  • She saw through his calculation and didn't fall for the scam.

Translations

Translations of the word "calculation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cálculo

🇮🇳 गणना

🇩🇪 Berechnung

🇮🇩 perhitungan

🇺🇦 обчислення

🇵🇱 obliczenie

🇯🇵 計算 (けいさん)

🇫🇷 calcul

🇪🇸 cálculo

🇹🇷 hesaplama

🇰🇷 계산 (gyesan)

🇸🇦 حساب

🇨🇿 výpočet

🇸🇰 výpočet

🇨🇳 计算 (jìsuàn)

🇸🇮 izračun

🇮🇸 útreikningur

🇰🇿 есептеу

🇬🇪 ანგარიშსწორება

🇦🇿 hesablama

🇲🇽 cálculo

Etymology

The word 'calculation' originated from the Latin word 'calculatio', which means a reckoning or computation. The concept of calculation has been essential in various fields such as mathematics, planning, and deception. The use of calculations has evolved over time, from simple arithmetic operations to complex strategic planning. Today, calculations play a crucial role in decision-making and problem-solving processes.

See also: calculable, calculated, calculating, calculatingly, calculations, calculator, calculus, incalculable, miscalculate, miscalculated.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,411, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.