approximately - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
approximately Word Meanings
- close to a particular amount or time
- not exactly but nearly
- roughly speaking
approximately Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
approximately Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈkrɒp.tɪ.mət.li/
US
/əˈkrɑː.p.tə.mɛt.li/
approximately Word Etymology
approximate = ad- (toward) + proximare (to come near) → Latin → English. Imagine someone cautiously approaching a goal or destination, measuring each step carefully but not needing to be exact.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I place my hand on the kitchen timer and push the knob a little, watching the numbers shift. I turn it again, making a small adjustment until the time feels close to right, not exact but approximately on target. I hold the moment, sensing the effort and the control as I fine-tune the plan. Later I might say it will be done in approximately five minutes, a rough sense that helps us stay in sync without demanding precision.
Real Context
Approximately means close to a particular amount or time without claiming exact precision. In everyday speech we hedge numbers or dates with approximately to convey estimation, measurement error, or polite hesitation. It sits between exact quantities and rough rounding, and is often preferred when precise data would be misleading or unavailable. In formal writing you might choose approximate values, ca., about, or around, depending on context. Learners sometimes misplace approximately before or after the noun, or confuse it with nearly or about. When used with figures, you can pair it with decimals or units, as in approximately 10 kilograms or approximately 9:00 AM.
Usage Reminders
- Use to hedge numbers or times
- Choose with or around depending on formality
- Do not use for exact measurements or dates
- Place before the figure or time as natural in English
- Pair with decimals or units when giving measurements
Common Misconceptions
- Think approximately means exactly the same as about
- Use approximately before any numeric noun without considering context
- Confuse approximately with basically or virtually
- Ignore that times can be hedged differently than quantities
- Ignore that decimal values can still be approximate
Thinking Differences
English speakers use approximately as a soft hedge before numbers or times, often in formal and informal contexts. Learners tend to misuse it with nouns or omit the unit, or confuse it with nearly or about.
Learning Tips
- Compare with synonyms like around and roughly
- Practice with numbers and times
- Avoid using approximately with exact figures
- Watch for word order before the noun
- Use in formal writing when precision is uncertain
- Review common collocations with units
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'approximately'?
A.Exactly
B.Totally
C.Almost
D.Completely
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'approximately' used in a sentence?
A.She is approximately tall.
B.He arrived approximately late.
C.I will leave approximately early.
D.The cake is approximately delicious.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'approximately'?
A.Precisely
B.Exactly
C.Specifically
D.Perfectly
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'approximately'?
A.Accurately
B.Definitely
C.Exactly
D.Fluctuating
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'approximately'?
A.Construction measurements
B.Weather forecasting
C.Cooking recipes
D.Budget planning
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