A back-of-the-envelope calculation
is a rough estimate made quickly using simplified assumptions and approximations. This type of calculation is typically done informally, often on any available paper, like the back of an envelope, to get a general idea or approximation of a figure without requiring detailed analysis or precise data.
Example in a sentence:
The engineer performed a back-of-the-envelope calculation to estimate the cost of materials for the new bridge, quickly jotting down the figures on a napkin during lunch.
Glossary:
A rough estimate: An imprecise or general calculation or guess based on limited information.
Assumptions: Conditions or premises accepted as true without proof, used as the basis for calculations or reasoning.
Approximation: A value or quantity that is nearly but not exactly correct.
A figure: A number or value, often representing a quantity or amount.
Jot down: To write something quickly and briefly.
In a financial world there are plenty of expressions used to describe types of calculation or how to calculate. Study the collocations, synonyms, proverbs and sayings with the words ’calculate’ or ’calculation’.
10 Collocations with the word 'calculation’
- Quick calculation
- She made a quick calculation to check if they had enough money to cover the expenses.
- Precise calculation
- The engineer’s precise calculation ensured the structure’s stability.
- Rough calculation
- After a rough calculation, he estimated that the trip would take around six hours.
- Complex calculation
- Solving the problem required a complex calculation involving multiple variables.
- Final calculation
- The accountant presented the final calculation of the year’s profits.
- Back-of-the-envelope calculation
- He did a back-of-the-envelope calculation to figure out the potential savings.
- Mathematical calculation
- The mathematical calculation showed the rate of increase over time.
- Detailed calculation
- They performed a detailed calculation to determine the project’s feasibility.
- Initial calculation
- Her initial calculation was off, so she had to redo the math.
- Error in calculation
- An error in calculation led to a significant loss in the project’s budget.
5 Proverbs or Sayings with 'Calculation’ or 'Calculate’
- Measure twice, cut once.
- It’s like the old saying, „Measure twice, cut once,” reminding us to double-check our calculations before making any final decisions.
- An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
- Calculating potential risks and preparing accordingly aligns with the proverb, „An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
- He who hesitates is lost.
- Sometimes, over-calculating every step can lead to inaction, as the saying goes, „He who hesitates is lost.”
- Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.
- It’s wise not to calculate your profits too early, as the saying warns, „Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.”
- Look before you leap.
- Making careful calculations before taking action is akin to the proverb, „Look before you leap.”
5 Synonyms for 'Calculate’
- Compute
- She had to compute the total cost before submitting the budget proposal.
- Estimate
- We need to estimate the time required to complete this project.
- Figure
- He tried to figure the amount of paint needed for the entire house.
- Evaluate
- The software can evaluate complex mathematical problems quickly.
- Reckon
- I reckon it will take about three hours to get there.
5 Synonyms for 'Calculation’
- Computation
- The computation of the data took several hours due to its complexity.
- Estimation
- Based on his estimation, the repairs would cost around $500.
- Assessment
- The financial assessment revealed that the company was in good health.
- Evaluation
- The evaluation of the results showed a significant improvement.
- Reckoning
- By his reckoning, they should arrive by noon.