OpenSynonym

calculate

/ˈkælkjəˌleɪt/

VERB

1. To determine a value using mathematics

To find a numerical value, quantity, or solution by performing mathematical operations.

1.1. Performing mathematical computations

Describes working out numbers, amounts, totals, or mathematical solutions through arithmetic or other mathematical methods.

Synonyms

Examples

  • Calculate the total cost before making any purchases.
  • Students were asked to calculate the area of the triangle using the given formula.
  • Engineers must calculate the load-bearing capacity of the structure.

Related Words

1.2. Determining quantities and measurements

Describes finding or establishing a quantity, measurement, rate, or numerical result by using data, formulas, or measurement methods.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The scientists calculated the velocity of the object from its distance and travel time.
  • The accountant calculated the company's annual expenses.

Related Words

  • measurement
  • estimation
  • quantification
  • evaluation
  • assessment

VERB

2. To estimate or predict an outcome

To form an estimate, judgment, or prediction about something based on available information, reasoning, or expectation.

2.1. Estimating or assessing likelihood

Describes judging the probable value, likelihood, or outcome of something by considering relevant information and circumstances.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • Investors calculate potential returns before committing their money.
  • We calculated that the journey would take approximately six hours.
  • She carefully calculated the risks before accepting the proposal.

Related Words

  • estimation
  • probability
  • forecast
  • prediction
  • expectation

2.2. Predicting future events or consequences

Describes anticipating or forecasting what is likely to happen by reasoning about circumstances, evidence, or expected developments.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The analysts calculated that demand would increase during the holiday season.
  • The astronomers calculated the expected date of the eclipse.

Related Words

  • foresight
  • prognosis
  • projection
  • expectation
  • presumption

VERB

3. To plan or intend something

To plan, design, or arrange something with a particular purpose or expected result in mind.

3.1. Planning and designing for a purpose

Describes deliberately arranging, designing, or adapting something to achieve a particular objective or produce a desired effect.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The campaign was calculated to attract younger customers.
  • The architect calculated every detail of the building's design to maximize natural light.

Related Words

3.2. Intending or aiming to achieve something

Describes having a particular intention, purpose, or objective when taking an action or making a decision.

Synonyms

Examples

  • His carefully chosen words were calculated to avoid offending anyone.
  • The proposal was calculated to improve cooperation between the two departments.

Related Words

VERB

4. To rely on or expect something

To depend on someone or something, or to expect a particular outcome when making plans or decisions.

4.1. Depending on or counting on something

Describes relying on a person, resource, or expected circumstance as part of a plan or course of action.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • We calculate on receiving the necessary funding before the end of the year.
  • The team calculated on favorable weather for the outdoor event.

Related Words