Approximate Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/əˈprɛksɪt/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun, Adjective

Definition

A close or near representation of something; not exact or precise.

Examples

• The mathematician approximated the solution to the equation.
• The artist painted an approximate likeness of the subject.

Synonyms

• Apropos
• Nearby

Antonyms

• Exact
• Precise

Etymology

The word “approximate” comes from the Latin “approximare,” meaning “to bring near” or “to approach.”

Usage Notes

Use “approximate” when describing something that is close but not exact. For example: “The estimate is an approximate cost for the construction project.”

Cultural References

Approximation is a common theme in various fields, from science to art and philosophy.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• To the best of my knowledge
• Approximately speaking

Related Words or Phrases

• Apropos
• Close but not quite
• Estimated

Collocations

• A close but not exact approximation
• To approximate something
• Approximate calculation

Frequency of Use

The word “approximate” is commonly used in everyday language, especially in technical and scientific contexts.