adj
Common
calculated
KALK-yuu-lay-tihd
Calculated (adj) means Worked out precisely through calculation. Example: “The builder gave a calculated estimate of exactly how much timber the shed needed.”
adj
1
Worked out precisely through calculation.
"The builder gave a calculated estimate of exactly how much timber the shed needed."
"The ship's arrival time was calculated from its speed and distance."
"The rocket's trajectory was calculated to the second."
2
Deliberately planned, often with a cool, strategic intent.
"His calculated smile hid how carefully he had planned the whole conversation."
"It was a calculated risk that ultimately paid off."
"Her calculated response gave nothing away."
How to use calculated
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither mathematically worked out, or deliberately planned rather than done on impulse.
Common pairings
calculated risk
calculated move
a calculated decision
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more calculated
- Superlative
- most calculated
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The builder gave a _____ estimate of exactly how much timber the shed needed.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for calculated
See all rhymes for calculated →Frequently asked questions
What does “calculated” mean?
The word “calculated” means worked out precisely through calculation. In plain terms, either mathematically worked out, or deliberately planned rather than done on impulse.
How do you pronounce “calculated”?
“Calculated” is pronounced KALK-yuu-lay-tihd (/ˈkælkjʊleɪtɪd/ in IPA).
How do you use “calculated” in a sentence?
Here is “calculated” used in a sentence: “The rocket's trajectory was calculated to the second.”
What part of speech is “calculated”?
“Calculated” is an adjective.
Is “calculated” a common word?
“Calculated” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “calculated” have?
“Calculated” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: worked out precisely through calculation.
What is the difference between 'calculated' and 'deliberate'?
Both describe intentional actions, but 'calculated' adds a sense of cool, strategic planning aimed at a particular result. 'Deliberate' simply means done on purpose rather than by accident. A calculated move is deliberate, with extra emphasis on careful planning.
Does 'calculated' have a negative connotation?
'Calculated' can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context. Describing a person's behaviour as calculated often suggests cold, self-interested scheming, whereas a 'calculated decision' can simply mean a well-reasoned one.
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