Meaning & Definition of word "Approximation"

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    Approximation

    /əˌprɒksɪˈmeɪʃən/

    noun:

    • 1. A value or quantity that is nearly but not exactly correct.
      • Example: The approximation of the total cost helped the team stay within budget.
    • 2. An estimation or rough calculation.
      • Example: For the sake of simplicity, we used an approximation of the distance.
    • 3. A mathematical or statistical approach that is close to the actual value or solution.
      • Example: In this method, we derived an approximation of the function using a polynomial.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'approximatio', meaning 'a coming near'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    in the approximation of:

    in a manner that is close to or nearly equal to something else.

    good approximation:

    a sufficiently close or accurate estimation for practical purposes.

    close approximation:

    an estimation that is nearly correct or similar to the actual value.

    Related Words

    estimate:

    A rough calculation of value, number, quantity, or extent.

    calculation:

    The act or process of using mathematics to find an answer.

    similarity:

    The quality of being alike or resembling something.

    Slang Meanings of approximation

    Meaning: Close guess

    Example Sentence: It's just a close guess, no need to stress!

    Meaning: Ballpark figure

    Example Sentence: Give me a ballpark figure of how much this will cost.