noun
extrapolation
ik-strap-uh-LAY-shun/ɪkˌstræpəˈleɪʃn/
An estimate made by extending known data or trends.
Her extrapolation puts next year's sales at nearly two million dollars.
Etymology
Extrapolate means estimating unknown values from trends in known data. The noun names that operation or its result, also extending to conclusions about the future drawn from present tendencies.
In context
the tragedy that struck this ailing land of Loran is said to have its root in the scourge of the beast. Some have made the dreaded extrapolation that Yharnam may be next.
More examples
- An extrapolation from recent growth suggests the town will need another school.
- The engineer's extrapolation gives an estimated temperature beyond the sensor's range.
- These extrapolations become less reliable as conditions change.
Forms
extrapolation · extrapolations
extrapolate verb — Estimate unknown values by extending known data.
Similar words
- projection
- Usually emphasizes a future result calculated from present trends.
- estimate
- Broader term that does not require extending existing data.
- prediction
- States what will happen, without necessarily using known data.