Estimate: Meaning, Examples, and Usage

Meaning 1：roughly calculate (estimate)

estimate 🔊

/ˈɛstɪmeɪt/

To make a rough calculation or guess about how much something costs, how big it is, or how long it will take.

Person using calculator to estimate grocery costs on notepad

roughly calculate 🔊

➕

/ˈrʌfli ˈkælkjʊleɪt/

To form an approximate judgment or opinion regarding the value, amount, size, or cost of something, often based on incomplete information.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'aestimare' (to value, appraise), derived from 'aes' (copper, money).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'E' for 'error' plus 'stimates' = rough guess. Picture a scale with an 'E' wobbling, showing an approximate weight.

📖 Example

Before starting a DIY project, it's smart to estimate the amount of paint needed to avoid buying too much. 🔊 It is a good idea to estimate the amount of paint required before starting a DIY project to avoid buying too much.

🔗 Collocations

estimate the cost – to approximate the amount of money needed

rough estimate – an approximation made without precise calculations

estimate the time – to guess how long something will take

🔄 Synonyms

gauge (v.) – to estimate or measure something, often by using a standard

approximate (v.) – to come close to something in value or quantity

reckon (v.) – to calculate roughly, especially in a specific context

🚫 Antonyms

determine (v.) – to find out exactly

ascertain (v.) – to find out definitely

🌱 Derivatives

estimation (n.) – the process of making an approximate judgment

estimator (n.) – a person or tool that provides an estimate

estimated (adj.) – approximate, calculated roughly

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Latin 'aestimare' meaning 'to value', linked to 'aes' (bronze, money). In ancient Rome, merchants estimated goods' worth in trade, forming the basis of commerce.