calculated

adjective

cal·​cu·​lat·​ed ˈkal-kyə-ˌlā-təd How to pronounce calculated (audio)
Synonyms of calculatednext
1
: apt, likely
2
a
: worked out by mathematical calculation
b
: engaged in, undertaken, or displayed after reckoning or estimating the statistical probability of success or failure
a calculated risk
3
a
: planned or contrived to accomplish a purpose
b
: deliberate, intended
a calculated attempt to deceive voters
calculatedly adverb
calculatedness noun

Examples of calculated in a Sentence

took a calculated risk and got in on the ground floor of the new enterprise
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
After her husband’s death, Richins published a children’s book about grief meant to help her sons cope with the loss, a detail prosecutors said underscored the calculated nature of the crime. Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 13 May 2026 Per the logline, the series will explore themes of privilege, manipulation, and deviance to understand why these women become calculated killers. Peter White, Deadline, 11 May 2026 The move could be seen as a calculated effort to project strength, according to Gómez. Abby Dodge, CBS News, 2 May 2026 The confidence to take calculated risks without fear is a key to having success at the highest level. Dane Mizutani, Twin Cities, 2 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for calculated

Word History

Etymology

from past participle of calculate

First Known Use

1723, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of calculated was in 1723

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Calculated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/calculated. Accessed 16 May. 2026.

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