calculated

adjective

cal·​cu·​lat·​ed ˈkal-kyə-ˌlā-təd 

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

Synonyms of calculated

• considered
• deliberate
• reasoned
• measured

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

On these blocks, darkened by the presence of heavily armed federal agents, Minnesotans describe routine movements as calculated risks, unsure which block might erupt into confrontation. —Alaa Elassar, CNN Money, 2 Feb. 2026

An investor looks at the risks, looks at the rewards, and makes a calculated decision. —Lien De Pau, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026

For San Jose, the signing is both a major investment and a calculated risk. —Harold Gutmann, Mercury News, 30 Jan. 2026

Belichick's strict, calculated approach to player management was a defining quality that yielded New England six Super Bowl trophies and nine appearances under the coach's leadership from 2000-2023. —Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 28 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

from past participle of calculate

First Known Use

1723, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for calculated

• abdicated
• abrogated
• acclimated
• activated
• actuated
• adumbrated
• advocated
• aggravated
• aggregated
• agitated
• allocated
• alternated