Eyeballing: meaning, definitions and examples
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eyeballing
[ ˈaɪbɔːlɪŋ ]
estimating size
Eyeballing refers to the act of estimating measurements or values by looking at them directly, often without the use of tools or precise instruments. This method relies on visual judgment and experience rather than calculated accuracy. Eyeballing can be useful in various contexts, such as cooking, construction, or art, where precise measurements may not be critical. However, it may lead to inaccuracies if precision is required.
Synonyms
estimating, guesstimating, judging
Examples of usage
- He was eyeballing the ingredients for the recipe.
- The carpenter was eyeballing the dimensions before cutting the wood.
- I just eyeball the amount of paint needed for the project.
Translations
Translations of the word "eyeballing" in other languages:
🇵🇹 estimar
🇮🇳 अनुमान लगाना
🇩🇪 schätzen
🇮🇩 memperkirakan
🇺🇦 приблизно оцінювати
🇵🇱 oceniać na oko
🇯🇵 おおよそ見積もる
🇫🇷 estimer à l'œil
🇪🇸 estimar a ojo
🇹🇷 göz kararı yapmak
🇰🇷 눈으로 측정하다
🇸🇦 تقدير تقريبي
🇨🇿 odhadovat
🇸🇰 odhadovať
🇨🇳 粗略估计
🇸🇮 približno oceniti
🇮🇸 meta á auga
🇰🇿 бағалау
🇬🇪 შეფასება თვალით
🇦🇿 təxmin etmək
🇲🇽 estimar a ojo
Etymology
The term 'eyeballing' dates back to the mid-20th century and stems from the literal interpretation of using one's eye to gauge or estimate something. It combines the word 'eye', which has been used in English since Old English origins to describe the organ of vision, with the action 'to ball', a less common verb suggesting a dynamic movement of estimation or judgment. Over time, 'eyeball' evolved as an idiomatic expression to represent an informal, non-exact method of measurement, gaining popularity in various fields, especially in manual crafts and arts, where quick decisions are often necessary. Eyeballing highlights a practical approach to measurement, often employed in everyday life when precise tools are unavailable, fitting seamlessly into modern vernacular as both a noun and a verb.