adj
Uncommon
calculating
Calculating (adj) means Coldly scheming and focused on personal advantage. Example: “He had a reputation as a calculating businessman who never made a move without an angle.”
adj
1
Coldly scheming and focused on personal advantage.
"He had a reputation as a calculating businessman who never made a move without an angle."
"Her calculating smile made me wonder what she wanted in return."
"The calculating manager only helped colleagues who might be useful to him later."
How to use calculating
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes someone who plans things out shrewdly and selfishly, often with a negative undertone.
When to use it
Usually carries a slightly critical tone, suggesting coldness or manipulation.
Common pairings
cold and calculating
a calculating mind
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more calculating
- Superlative
- most calculating
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He had a reputation as a _____ businessman who never made a move without an angle.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for calculating
See all rhymes for calculating →Frequently asked questions
What does “calculating” mean?
The word “calculating” means coldly scheming and focused on personal advantage. In plain terms, describes someone who plans things out shrewdly and selfishly, often with a negative undertone.
How do you use “calculating” in a sentence?
Here is “calculating” used in a sentence: “He had a reputation as a calculating businessman who never made a move without an angle.”
What part of speech is “calculating”?
“Calculating” is an adjective.
Is “calculating” a common word?
“Calculating” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between "calculating" and "cunning"?
Calculating describes someone who is coldly scheming and focused on personal advantage, emphasizing deliberate, strategic thinking, while cunning suggests cleverness and skill in deception or trickery. Both carry negative connotations, but "calculating" stresses cold, planned self-interest.
Is "calculating" always an insult?
Yes, in this sense calculating is a critical term describing someone as coldly scheming and focused on personal advantage, rather than simply someone good at planning or analysis.
What is the difference between "calculating" and "analytical"?
"Analytical" is a neutral or positive term describing someone skilled at logical analysis, while "calculating" implies that same careful, strategic thinking is being used coldly for personal gain, giving it a negative connotation.
