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

Of course this was a calculated power play, not a bureaucratic botch. —U T Editorial Board, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Mar. 2026

Some Chinese analysts argue that not providing security guarantees to partners represents a calculated approach from Beijing that differentiates it from the US. —John Liu, CNN Money, 4 Mar. 2026

Switching Obstacle Avoidance in complex environments like this is a calculated risk, but simple flight, care and attention to the environment go a long way. —James Abbott, Space.com, 24 Feb. 2026

The book could play a key role for prosecutors in framing Eric Richins' death as a calculated killing with an elaborate cover-up attempt. —CBS News, 23 Feb. 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