Meaning & Definition of word "Approximately"

Approximately

/əˈprɒksɪmətli/

adverb:

  • 1. Used to show that something is almost, but not completely, accurate or exact; roughly.
    • Example: The project will take approximately three weeks to complete.
  • 2. Close to a particular value or amount, but not completely accurate.
    • Example: There are approximately 200 students enrolled in the class.
  • 3. An estimation indicating a lack of precision.
    • Example: The temperature is approximately 30 degrees Celsius today.
  • 4. Roughly or nearly, especially in terms of quantity, time, or degree.
    • Example: She runs approximately five miles every morning.

Etymology

From Latin 'approximare', meaning 'to come near to'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

approximately the same:

Almost identical in degree or quantity.

approximately equal:

Close enough in value for practical purposes.

approximately 50%:

Roughly half of the total amount.

Related Words

approximation:

An estimate or a value that is close to but not exact.

approximate:

Close to the actual, but not completely accurate or exact.

Slang Meanings of approximately

Meaning: About or around (used informally).

Example Sentence: I'll be there in, like, approximately 10 minutes.

Meaning: Sort of or kind of (casual usage).

Example Sentence: It's approximately cool outside, you know?