Calculate

Definition

Calculate is a verb that means to determine something by mathematical or logical methods, to assess or estimate, or to plan or intend something with care.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkælkjəˌleɪt/
• Respelling: KAL-kyuh-layt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkælkjʊˌleɪt/
• Respelling: KAL-kyuh-layt

Etymology

The word "calculate" originates from the Latin "calculare," meaning "to count" or "to reckon." This was derived from "calculus," meaning "a small stone used in counting" or "pebble," as small stones were once used as counting tools in early arithmetic.

Derivatives

• Calculation (noun)
• Calculator (noun)
• Calculative (adjective)
• Calculated (adjective)
• Calculating (adjective)

Synonyms

• Compute
• Estimate
• Determine

Antonyms

• Guess
• Estimate (approximate)
• Neglect

Usage

The term "calculate" is commonly used to refer to determining numerical results or solving mathematical problems. For example, "She calculated the total cost of the groceries" or "He calculated the risks before making his decision."

Related Terms

• Compute: To use mathematics to find a result.
• Evaluate: To determine the value of something.
• Estimate: To roughly calculate or judge a value.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To determine something by mathematical or logical methods: Refers to finding a numerical result or solution through arithmetic or other logical methods.
  • Example: "He used the formula to calculate the area of the triangle."
• To assess or estimate the likelihood or outcome of something: Used to mean estimating probabilities or possible results.
  • Example: "They tried to calculate the chances of success."
• To plan or intend something with care or purpose: Often used in contexts where actions are thought out to achieve a specific outcome.
  • Example: "He calculated every move in advance."