C1nounformalacademicscience
US/əˌprɑːk.sɪˈmeɪ.ʃən/
UK/əˌprɒk.sɪˈmeɪ.ʃən/
a number or answer that is close to the correct one but not exact
In context
The figure of ten thousand is only a rough approximation.
This formula gives a good approximation of the planet's mass.
The report gave only an approximation of how many people attended.
Words that go with approximation
adjective + noun
- rough approximationA rough approximation is enough for now.
- close approximationThe model is a close approximation of reality.
- good approximationTen percent is a good approximation.
- reasonable approximationA reasonable approximation is enough for this estimate.
- first approximationAs a first approximation, assume prices stay flat.
noun + preposition
- approximation ofThis is an approximation of the true cost.