Approximately or Aproximately
Which spelling is correct? Learn the difference between "Approximately" and "Aproximately". These are commonly confused spellings and how to use them correctly.
Aproximately
Incorrect spelling - This spelling is incorrect. "Aproximately" is missing the "x" - it should be "approximately."
"Aproximately" is a common misspelling of "Approximately". Always use "Approximately" when referring to the correct word.
Approximately
Correct spelling - The proper way to spell this word.
This is the correct spelling. "Approximately" means roughly or about, used to indicate an estimate.
Definition of Approximately
"Approximately": This is the correct spelling. "Approximately" means roughly or about, used to indicate an estimate.
This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.
Synonyms for Approximately
- • Roughly
- • About
- • Nearly
- • Around
- • Close to
- • More or less
- • In the region of
- • Give or take
Usage Examples
"Correct:" The meeting will last approximately two hours.
"Correct:" There are approximately 50 people in the room.
"Correct:" The project will cost approximately $10,000.
"Incorrect:" The project will cost Aproximately $10,000. (should be used Approximately )
Notes:
- • "Approximately" is the correct spelling. "Aproximately" is a common misspelling—remember to include the "x" in the middle of the word.
- • Think of "approximate" + "ly" to remember the correct spelling. The word comes from the Latin "approximatus" meaning "to come near."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it aproximately or approximately?
The correct spelling is "approximately." "Aproximately" is incorrect—it's missing the "x."
How to pronounce approximately?
It's pronounced as /əˈprɒksɪmətli/ (uh-PROK-sim-ut-lee).
What does approximately mean?
Approximately means roughly, about, or nearly - used when you want to give an estimate that's close but not exact.
When should I use approximately?
Use "approximately" when you want to give a rough estimate or when exact precision isn't necessary or possible.
Is approximately formal or informal?
Approximately is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. It's commonly used in academic, business, and everyday writing.
What's the difference between approximately and exactly?
Approximately means roughly or about, while exactly means precisely or with complete accuracy.
Can approximately be used in scientific writing?
Yes! "The sample weighed approximately 2.5 grams" is appropriate in scientific contexts when exact measurement isn't critical.
What's the adjective form of approximately?
The adjective form is "approximate" - meaning roughly accurate or close to the actual value.
What's the origin of approximately?
Approximately comes from the Latin "approximatus" meaning "to come near" + the English suffix "-ly."
Can approximately be used in everyday conversation?
Yes! "It's approximately 5 miles away" or "The meeting will last approximately an hour" are common uses.
Summary
Meaning: Roughly, about, or nearly; used to indicate an estimate that's close but not exact. Remember: Always include the "x" in approximately. Think of "approximate" + "ly" to remember the correct spelling.