Definition of Approximate
Quick Meaning of Approximate
Close to the real number or amount but not exactly right; roughly correct.
Detailed Definition of Approximate
Close to a particular number, size, or time, but not exact; nearly accurate.
How to Pronounce Approximate
Stress pattern: oOoo (4-syllable word).
Tip: uh-PROK-suh-mit. Stress on second syllable. First syllable is a schwa sound like 'uh'.
Watch out: AP-prox-i-mate (stress on first syllable is incorrect).
Origin and Etymology of Approximate
From Latin approximare: ad- (to) + proximus (nearest). Means 'draw near to'.
How to Use Approximate in a Sentence
Each example shows “approximate” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The approximate distance between the two cities is 200 kilometers.”
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“An approximate date for the historical event would be sometime in the 15th century.”
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“We will arrive at the approximate time of 6 PM, give or take a few minutes.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Approximate
Common Synonyms for Approximate
Smart Synonyms for Approximate — When to Use Each
- rough
- for quick estimates that are clearly not exact
- estimated
- when making educated guesses based on available information
- about
- informal way to express something is not precise
Antonyms of Approximate
Common Collocations with Approximate
These phrases pair with “approximate” in everyday English:
- approximate time
- approximate number
- approximate location
- approximate value
Common Mistakes When Using Approximate
Even fluent speakers slip up with “approximate”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The approximate cost is about 50 dollars.
- ✓ Correct: The approximate cost is 50 dollars.
- Why: 'Approximate' already means 'about'; using 'about' again is redundant.
- ✗ Wrong: He gave an approximate answer to the question.
- ✓ Correct: He gave an approximate answer.
- Why: Clearer without 'to the question'; approximate already implies imprecision.
Words Confused With Approximate
- Approximate vs Precise: Opposite meaning; precise means exact while approximate means close but not exact.
Other Forms of Approximate
- Noun: approximation
- Verb: approximate
- Adjective: approximate
- Adverb: approximately
Frequently Asked Questions About Approximate
What is the meaning of "Approximate"?
Close to the real number or amount but not exactly right; roughly correct.
How do you pronounce "Approximate"?
The IPA is /əˈprɒksɪmət/. uh-PROK-suh-mit. Stress on second syllable. First syllable is a schwa sound like 'uh'.
What part of speech is "Approximate"?
"Approximate" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Approximate"?
Common synonyms include rough, estimated, about.
How do you use "Approximate" in a sentence?
For example: "The approximate distance between the two cities is 200 kilometers."