Miscompute: meaning, definitions and examples
🧮
miscompute
[ˌmɪsˈkɒmpjut ]
Definition
mathematics
To calculate something incorrectly or to make a mistake in a mathematical computation.
Synonyms
err, miscalculate, misreckon.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
miscompute |
This word is often used in technical or mathematical settings when referring to incorrect results due to computational errors.
|
miscalculate |
This term is commonly used in situations involving numerical calculations but can also be used metaphorically for misjudging any situation.
|
misreckon |
Similar to 'miscalculate,' this word is often used in contexts where an assessment or judgment is not just numerically wrong but significantly misspeculated, though it is less common.
|
err |
This is a more general word used for various types of mistakes or errors in judgment or understanding, not limited to calculations.
|
Examples of usage
- He miscomputed the total sum of the expenses.
- If you miscompute the formula, you will get the wrong result.
- The student miscomputed the answer and ended up with the wrong solution.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 'Miscompute' combines the prefix 'mis-', meaning wrong or badly, with 'compute', which comes from the Latin 'computare', meaning to calculate.
- The word gained popularity in the late 20th century as computers became integral to everyday life, highlighting the importance of accurate calculations.
- 'Compute' alone has been in use since the 14th century, showing how long the concept of calculation has existed.
Technology
- Software errors can lead to miscompute situations, showcasing the need for rigorous testing in programming to avoid costly mistakes.
- With the rise of artificial intelligence, miscompute instances underline the necessity for human oversight in automated decision-making.
- Rapid advancement in technology has led to complex computations that can sometimes result in errors without immediate detection.
Education
- Miscomputing often occurs in classrooms, emphasizing the importance of teaching students to check their work and understand foundational concepts.
- Educational tools, like calculators and computers, can both help and hinder learning if students rely on them without understanding the math involved.
- Mistakes in computation can be powerful teaching moments, encouraging problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Psychology
- Confidence in math skills can decrease after experiencing a miscompute, linking anxiety with cognitive performance.
- Many people fear making mistakes in calculations, which can create a mental block during tests or real-life situations.
- Understanding how the brain processes numerical operations can shed light on why errors occur during computations and how to improve accuracy.
Pop Culture
- In various films and shows, characters who miscompute often find themselves in humorous or dramatic situations, highlighting human error.
- The portrayal of geniuses in media often ignores the fact that even they can miscompute, showcasing that mistakes are universal.
- Games and puzzles frequently incorporate the theme of miscomputation as a plot point, emphasizing problem-solving and critical thinking.
Translations
Translations of the word "miscompute" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cometer um erro de cálculo
🇮🇳 ग़लत गणना करना
🇩🇪 falsch berechnen
🇮🇩 menghitung salah
🇺🇦 невірно обчислити
🇵🇱 błędnie obliczyć
🇯🇵 計算を誤る
🇫🇷 faire une erreur de calcul
🇪🇸 calcular mal
🇹🇷 yanlış hesaplamak
🇰🇷 잘못 계산하다
🇸🇦 حساب خطأ
🇨🇿 špatně spočítat
🇸🇰 nesprávne vypočítať
🇨🇳 计算错误
🇸🇮 napačno izračunati
🇮🇸 rangreikna
🇰🇿 қате есептеу
🇬🇪 არასწორად გამოითვალო
🇦🇿 səhv hesabla
🇲🇽 calcular mal