calculation
kalk-yoo-LAYSHN
Calculation (noun) means the process of working out a number or amount using mathematics. Example: “Her calculation of the total came out slightly different from mine.”
noun
1
The process of working out a number or amount using mathematics.
"Her calculation of the total came out slightly different from mine."
"A quick calculation showed they were still under budget."
"The accountant double-checked every calculation before filing the report."
2
A careful assessment of a situation made in order to decide what to do.
"The coach's calculation was that a draw would be enough to qualify."
"It was a shrewd calculation, weighing the cost of waiting against a better offer."
"His decision to invest was based on a cold calculation of the risks."
How to use calculation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a mathematical working-out, or a strategic weighing-up of a situation.
Common pairings
a rough calculation
by calculation
political calculation
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Word forms
- Plural
- calculations
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Her _____ of the total came out slightly different from mine.
Etymology
From Latin calculatio, built on calculare, "to reckon" — the noun form of "calculate."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for calculation
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for calculation →
Frequently asked questions
What does “calculation” mean?
The word “calculation” means the process of working out a number or amount using mathematics. In plain terms, either a mathematical working-out, or a strategic weighing-up of a situation.
How do you pronounce “calculation”?
“Calculation” is pronounced kalk-yoo-LAYSHN (/ˌkælkjəˈleɪʃn̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “calculation” in a sentence?
Here is “calculation” used in a sentence: “A quick calculation showed they were still under budget.”
What is another word for “calculation”?
Words with a similar meaning to “calculation” include evaluation, reckoning, calculus, ciphering, computing and supputation.
What is the opposite of “calculation”?
The opposite of “calculation” — its antonyms — are miscalculation, miscomputation and misreckoning.
What part of speech is “calculation”?
“Calculation” is a noun.
Where does the word “calculation” come from?
The word “calculation” comes from Latin. From Latin calculatio, built on calculare, "to reckon" — the noun form of "calculate.".
Is “calculation” a common word?
“Calculation” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between a calculation and an estimate?
A calculation is the process of working out a precise number or amount using mathematics, while an estimate is an approximate figure arrived at without exact computation. Calculation implies a more rigorous mathematical process than a rough guess.
Can calculation refer to something other than math?
Yes, calculation can also mean a careful assessment of a situation made in order to decide what to do, such as a strategic or business calculation. This sense focuses on weighing factors rather than performing arithmetic.
What is the difference between calculation and computation?
Calculation and computation are closely related, both referring to working out a number or amount using mathematics. Computation is often used specifically in contexts involving machines or complex processes, while calculation is the more general, everyday term.
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