What is the Abbreviation for Approximate?

How do you abbreviate approximate? There are two common ways to abbreviate approximate.

They are,

  • approx.
  • app.

For example,

  • Approx. 2:00 p.m.
  • App. three dozen

When to Use This Abbreviation

This abbreviation is commonly found when measuring distance, time, or a number of objects. You might abbreviate the word approximate to approx. or app. on a recipe card, in shorthand note taking, or on a construction job site.

It is also common to see such abbreviations in headlines or newspaper titles where space is a concern.

Outside of measuring indefinite numbers, shorthand notes, headlines, or newspaper titles, the word is not abbreviated in general prose.

What Does Approximate Mean?

definition of approxDefinition of Approximate: Approximate is defined as close to actual, but not completely accurate or exact; come close or be similar to something in quality, nature, or quantity.

For example,

  • The approximate dimensions are known.
  • You might approximate kindness for naiveté.

The word approximate functions as an adjective and a verb, respectively, in the above sentences.

Outside Examples of Approximate

  • abbreviation of approximate abbreviationIt starts as American, then it’s reformulated with small amounts of smoked Gouda (“For backbone, and for that smoky flavor,” said Sprague and blue cheese (“To add some funkiness, and approximate what you might get with a fontina,” said Sprague). It drapes over the patties like a dream. –Minneapolis Star Tribune
  • Look closely, and you’ll notice that most polls question roughly 1,000 people. That holds true whether pollsters are trying to approximate voter opinion in Rhode Island (about 1 million residents) or the entire U.S. (nearly 320 million residents). –Houston Chronicle

Summary: Approximate Abbreviation

There are two common abbreviations of approximate: approx. and app.

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