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approximate Synonyms

Another word for approximate

Choosing another word for approximate depends on context, so the 27 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 5 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• adjective (Context 1)

Close to the actual value, number, or condition, but not completely accurate or exact.

Usage Example

"The contractor provided an estimated cost for the kitchen renovation before finalizing the blueprints."

Strongest
estimated
rough
Strong
ballpark
near
inexact
close
imprecise
loose

• verb (Context 2)

To come close or be similar to something in quality, nature, or quantity.

Usage Example

"Synthetic fibers have been engineered to closely approach the softness and warmth of natural wool."

Strongest
approach
Strong
resemble
border on
verge on
simulate
imitate
Weak
echo

• verb (Context 3)

To calculate or estimate a value, amount, or figure that is close to the exact truth.

Usage Example

"Astronomers can estimate the age of the star cluster by analyzing the luminosity of its oldest stars."

Strongest
estimate
Strong
gauge
reckon
project
guess

• verb (Context 4)

To bring two anatomical parts or tissue edges close together (especially in surgery or medicine).

Usage Example

"The surgeon used fine sutures to join the edges of the incision so the tissue would heal cleanly."

Strong
join
connect
abut

• adjective (Context 5)

Situated very close together in space or position (especially of anatomical structures or plant parts).

Usage Example

"In this species of fern, the leaflets are closely adjacent along the main stem without fusing together."

Strong
adjacent
contiguous
adjoining
proximate

Opposites of approximate

The opposite of approximate shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

exact
precise
separate
distant
accurate
divide
differ
remote
See all opposites of approximate

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Approximate. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/approximate
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