compute
word
Definition
To use mathematics or a computer to find out a number or result.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly formal or technical; often used in academic, scientific, or programming contexts. Commonly appears with terms like 'compute the total', 'compute the value', 'compute sum'. Not used for simple, everyday mental math—prefer 'calculate' in casual settings.
Spanish: calcular - computarPortuguese (BR): calcular - computarPortuguese (PT): calcular - computarChinese (Simplified): 计算Chinese (Traditional): 計算Hindi: गणना करना - हिसाब लगानाArabic: يحسب - يحتسب
Example Sentences
The computer will compute the answer for you.
basic
Can you compute the total cost?
basic
Students learned to compute averages in math class.
basic
We need to compute how much data we’re using each month.
natural
My laptop can compute complex equations really fast.
natural
It took a while to compute the results, but the system finally finished.
natural