estimate
EHS-tih-muht
Estimate (noun) means a rough calculation of a cost, size, or amount, made without exact figures. Example: “The builder gave us an estimate of five thousand pounds for the extension.”
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."
"Can you give me an estimate of how long the repair will take?"
verb
1
To roughly calculate or judge the value, size, or cost of something.
"She estimated that the project would take three months."
"I'd estimate the walk to the village takes about forty minutes."
"The teachers estimated how many seats were needed and ordered a few extra."
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
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Word forms
- Plural
- estimates
- Third person singular
- estimates
- Past tense
- estimated
- Comparative
- more estimate
- Superlative
- most estimate
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
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."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for estimate
See all rhymes for estimate →Frequently asked questions
What does “estimate” mean?
The word “estimate” means a rough calculation of a cost, size, or amount, made without exact figures. In plain terms, a rough guess based on the information available, or the act of making that guess.
How do you pronounce “estimate”?
“Estimate” is pronounced EHS-tih-muht (/ˈɛs.tɪ.mət/ in IPA).
How do you use “estimate” in a sentence?
Here is “estimate” used in a sentence: “The builder gave us an estimate of five thousand pounds for the extension.”
What is another word for “estimate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “estimate” include appraise, assess, approximate, put and give.
What part of speech is “estimate”?
Depending on how it is used, “estimate” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “estimate” come from?
The word “estimate” comes from Latin. From Latin aestimare, "to value or assess" — the same root as "esteem.".
Is “estimate” a common word?
“Estimate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “estimate” have?
“Estimate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a rough calculation of a cost, size, or amount, made without exact figures.
What is the difference between an 'estimate' and a 'quote'?
An 'estimate' is a rough calculation of a likely cost that can change once the work is clearer, while a 'quote' is a fixed price the seller commits to. Tradespeople often give an estimate first and a firm quote afterward.
What is the difference between an 'estimate' and a 'guess'?
An 'estimate' is a rough calculation based on some information, method, or measurement, while a 'guess' relies on little or no evidence. An estimate is therefore generally more reliable than a pure guess.
What is the difference between 'estimate' and 'estimation'?
'Estimate' usually refers to the rough figure or calculation itself, while 'estimation' often refers to the act of judging or to one's opinion of someone, as in 'in my estimation.' The two overlap but are not always interchangeable.
What preposition follows the verb 'estimate'?
The verb 'estimate' is often followed by 'at' when giving a figure, as in 'they estimated the cost at £500.' It can also be followed by 'that' plus a clause, as in 'we estimate that demand will rise.'
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