estimate

word

/ˈɛstəˌmeɪt/, /ˈɛstəmət/
ES-tuh-mayt (verb), ES-tuh-muht (noun)
/ˈɛstəˌmeɪt/, /ˈɛstəmət/
ES-tuh-mayt (verb), ES-tuh-muht (noun)

Definition

To guess or calculate an amount, value, or number, usually based on information you have but without knowing the exact answer.

Usage & Nuances

Can be a noun ('give an estimate') or verb ('estimate the cost'). Common in business, science, and everyday conversation. Used for numbers, time, money. Do not confuse with 'guess' (less informed) or 'evaluate' (detailed assessment).

Example Sentences

Can you estimate how many people will come to the party?

basic

The plumber gave me an estimate for repairing the sink.

basic

I need to estimate the total cost before I buy the materials.

basic

It's hard to estimate how long the repairs will take until we see the damage.

natural

The company's estimate was much higher than I expected.

natural

If I had to estimate, I'd say about fifty people showed up.

natural