English Reference
adjective

calculated

adj.
US /ˈkæɫkjəˌɫeɪtɪd/ UK /kˈælkjʊlˌeɪtɪd/ cal·cu·lat·ed

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    carefully planned to achieve a specific result.

    deliberately planned or intended to produce a particular effect; often used to describe risks or insults.

    Simple

    The company took a calculated risk when they launched the expensive new phone.

    In context

    The politician's silence was a calculated move designed to let the controversy fade before he made a public statement.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    done in a cold way without showing any feelings.

    characterised by cold, unemotional, and purely analytical thinking, often with a selfish or cruel motive.

    Simple

    He gave a calculated answer that didn't reveal his true feelings.

    In context

    The antagonist's actions were not born of passion, but were the calculated steps of a man who viewed people as mere tools for his advancement.

    cold bloodedschemingcalculating
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate Technical Math

    found or decided by using mathematics.

    ascertained or determined through mathematical processes or logical computation.

    Simple

    The calculated distance to the moon is very precise.

    In context

    Once the engineers had verified the calculated load-bearing capacity of the bridge, they approved the final construction phase.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated