26984 words

approximate

6 definitions • 11 examples
1
not completely accurate but close:

Examples:

The train's approximate time of arrival is 10.30.
The approximate cost will be about $600.
Can you give me an approximate idea of the numbers involved?
2
to be almost the same as:

Examples:

The newspaper reports of the discussion only roughly approximated to (= were not exactly the same as) what was actually said.
Student numbers this year are expected to approximate 5,000 (= to be about 5,000).
3
almost exact:

Examples:

Can you tell me the approximate value of this watch?
4
to come near in quality, amount, value, or character:

Examples:

The painting only approximated the mountain landscape.
5
close to a particular number or time but not exactly that number or time:

Examples:

All numbers are approximate.
the approximate amount/cost/number The final resulting figure is the approximate amount for which the home should be insured.
6
to be close to a particular number or time but not exactly that number or time:

Examples:

Compound annual earnings growth has approximated 90%.
approximate to sth To secure the company, it is having to pay a price approximating to half its present market capitalization.

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