Translation guide
The English word 'estimate' covers both a rough calculation (noun) and the act of making one (verb). In Japanese, different words are used depending on whether you mean a formal cost estimate, a rough guess, an appraisal, or the verb 'to estimate'. This guide helps you choose the right expression.
To refer to an approximate calculation or judgment of value, number, quantity, or extent.
The most common word for a formal or business estimate, especially for costs, budgets, or project timelines. Often used in professional contexts.
Please get an estimate for the construction work.
I will send you the written estimate.
A rough estimate or approximate calculation, often used in technical or financial contexts. Less common in everyday speech.
What is the rough estimate of the cost?
An estimate based on inference or deduction, often used in scientific, statistical, or investigative contexts.
The police are estimating the time of death.
A rough standard or guideline; an approximate target. Used when giving a ballpark figure or reference point.
As a rough estimate, it takes about an hour.
A guess or conjecture, often used in the phrase 当てにする (to count on something). Not a direct translation for 'estimate' but can imply a rough expectation.
His estimate was off.
To form an approximate judgment or calculation regarding value, size, amount, etc.
The standard verb for estimating costs, time, or resources. Used in business and everyday situations.
Please estimate the cost.
To infer or deduce an estimate, often based on evidence or data. Common in academic, scientific, or formal contexts.
To estimate the population.
To make a rough calculation. Less common in conversation; mainly used in written or technical contexts.
Please give a rough estimate of the cost.
To estimate roughly, often by eye or intuition. Rarely used; 見積もる is preferred.
To estimate the distance by eye.
An expert assessment of value, especially for property, art, or antiques.
To assess the monetary value of something.
見積もり is the go-to for business and everyday cost/time estimates. 推定 is for inferential estimates based on data (e.g., population, time of death). 概算 is a rough calculation, often used in technical writing. For most situations, 見積もり is safest.
Get an estimate for renovation.
Estimate someone's age.
The loanword エスティメート is not commonly used in Japanese. Stick to native terms like 見積もり or 推定.
Can you give me an estimate?
The estimate was too high.
I estimate it will take three days.
It's difficult to estimate the time.
To have an art piece appraised.