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Extrapolate: meaning, definitions and examples

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extrapolate

 

[ ɪkˈstræpəleɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

mathematics

To extend the known data or values of a sequence or function beyond the area that is actually known, typically by using a formula or pattern to predict future values.

Synonyms

estimate, predict, project.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extrapolate

Used when making an educated guess about something based on existing trends or data.

  • By examining last year's sales data, they were able to extrapolate future growth.
  • Scientists often extrapolate results from laboratory experiments to predict outcomes in real-world settings.
predict

Used when making a specific forecast about the future; often implies some degree of certainty or method.

  • Meteorologists can predict the weather using advanced models.
  • It's hard to predict the outcome of the election with so many variables at play.
estimate

Used when giving a rough calculation or judgment based on available information; more about approximation.

  • The mechanic gave an estimate for the cost of repairs.
  • We need a quick estimate of the number of guests for the event.
project

Used when planning or forecasting future events, often in a business or financial context.

  • The company is projecting a 10% increase in revenue next year.
  • She projected her expenses for the month to stay within budget.

Examples of usage

  • By extrapolating the trend from the past five years, we can predict the sales for the upcoming year.
  • She extrapolated the results of the experiment to draw a conclusion about the overall population.
Context #2 | Verb

general

To infer or estimate something based on known information or data, often by extending or projecting the existing trends or patterns.

Synonyms

conclude, deduce, infer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
extrapolate

This term is typically used when you take known data and apply it to estimate or predict unknown values, often in the context of scientific, mathematical, or statistical analyses.

  • Based on the previous sales data, we can extrapolate that our revenue will continue to grow next year
infer

This term is used when you draw conclusions based on indirect evidence or incomplete information. It is commonly used in reading comprehension, literary analysis, and everyday judgments.

  • From her hesitation, I could infer that she was not telling the whole truth
deduce

Use this word when you reach a logical decision or answer by considering the known facts or evidence. It is often used in problem-solving situations and logical reasoning.

  • From the clues left at the crime scene, the detective was able to deduce the identity of the thief
conclude

This word is used when you make a final decision or opinion after considering all the information. It is commonly used in formal writing, discussions, and decision-making processes.

  • After reviewing all the evidence, the jury concluded that the defendant was not guilty

Examples of usage

  • The detective was able to extrapolate the suspect's whereabouts from the evidence at the crime scene.
  • You can extrapolate the final cost by multiplying the initial price by the number of units.

Translations

Translations of the word "extrapolate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 extrapolar

🇮🇳 व्यत्यासित करना

🇩🇪 extrapolieren

🇮🇩 memprediksi

🇺🇦 екстраполювати

🇵🇱 ekstrapolować

🇯🇵 外挿する (がいそうする)

🇫🇷 extrapoler

🇪🇸 extrapolar

🇹🇷 ekstrapole etmek

🇰🇷 외삽하다

🇸🇦 استقراء

🇨🇿 extrapolovat

🇸🇰 extrapolovať

🇨🇳 外推 (wàituī)

🇸🇮 ekstrapolirati

🇮🇸 útvíkka

🇰🇿 экстраполяция жасау

🇬🇪 ექსტრაპოლირება

🇦🇿 ekstrapolyasiya etmək

🇲🇽 extrapolar

Etymology

The word 'extrapolate' originated from the Latin word 'extrapolatus', which means 'to extend'. It first appeared in English in the mid-19th century. The concept of extrapolation has been used in various fields, including mathematics, statistics, and science, to make predictions or draw conclusions based on existing data. The ability to extrapolate accurately is crucial in decision-making and forecasting.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,196, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.