noun
estimate
EHS-tih-muht
noun
1
A rough calculation of a cost, size, or amount, made without exact figures.
"The builder gave us an estimate of five thousand pounds for the extension."
"Analysts revised their estimate of quarterly sales upward."
verb
1
To roughly calculate or judge the value, size, or cost of something.
"She estimated that the project would take three months."
How to Use Estimate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA rough guess based on the information available, or the act of making that guess.
Common mistake
An "estimate" is not a guarantee of final cost — a formal binding price is usually called a "quote."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
rough estimate
get an estimate
estimate the cost
ballpark estimate
Word Forms
more estimate comparative, estimated past tense, estimates plural, estimates singular, most estimate superlative
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The builder gave us an _____ of five thousand pounds for the extension.
Etymology
From Latin aestimare, "to value or assess" — the same root as "esteem."