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approximate

approximate

1 6.1
Close together on a stem but not joined
  • adjective
  • /əˈprɒk.sɪ.mət/
translation icon : próximo
  • Fortunately, both sections maintained approximate numbers (n=18 UGs, n=17 Gs finished the course in section one; n=14 UGs, n=16 Gs finished in section two).

Examples

  • Hand grafting 10 days after surgery. The line indicates the approximate border of the graft.

    Academic text (2018)
  • The two buildings were constructed in approximate alignment, giving the street a symmetrical look.

  • We are in the approximate splashdown area and are awaiting further orders.

  • The simulator has established the approximate location over which the three stars are to converge.

  • Even if one knows the approximate location of Gobernador Knob, actually getting there is relatively difficult.

    Academic text (2001)
  • Our mineral scanners have located what we believe is the approximate site of the old mining expedition.

  • The Society maintains an approximate 60 percent equity to 40 percent fixed income asset allocation goal and continues to maintain a well-diversified portfolio.

    Academic text (2001)
  • In the garden, the flowers were planted in approximate rows, creating a colorful display.

  • They sat in approximate circles around the campfire, sharing stories of their adventures.

Synonyms

close
vsapproximate
1.0

Near in space, time, or degree

focuses on physical grouping and lack of union rather than broad nearness
near
vsapproximate
240 1.0

At a short distance in space or time

highlights grouping and lack of union rather than simply short distance
close together
vsapproximate
58 1.0

Near each other with very little space between them

stresses near placement while making clear items are not joined
close-set
vsapproximate
1 5.1

Placed very near each other, often for eyes or teeth

is used for wider things that grow or sit together but stay separate
thickset
vsapproximate
6.1

Plants or trees that grow very close together and form a crowded group

refers to proximity without implying dense packing or plant focus

Antonyms

829 2.1

Not joined to another thing and kept apart

76 3.5

Not closely related or connected, for example a relative far away

How Close

adjacent
100 3.8
approximate
1 6.1
near
240 1.0
far
1.0

Surface Forms

approximate positive
approximater comparative
approximatest superlative

Morphology

approximate = proximate (semi-transparent) = ap + proximate

The form is clearly ap- + proximate, but this particular locative sense is uncommon and may be unfamiliar to many learners.

Etymology

Approximate comes from Latin parts ad- ('to') and proximus ('near'), so it originally meant 'to make near'. It is related to proximity ('nearness'), which helps explain the botanical sense where leaves or branches grow very close together but stay separate.