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.
No matter what year you were born in, the year of the Fire Horse is a time to speak up about your desires, be courageous in sharing your love, and take calculated risks. Annabel Gat, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2026 Was her decision to push forward with a severe knee injury a calculated risk or stubborn foolishness? Los Angeles Times, 9 Feb. 2026 Along the way of most successful rebuilding efforts, or even just more traditional team-building efforts, however, successful teams tend to take a calculated risk or two on some high-pedigree players or high-potential skaters at a low ebb in their value. Harman Dayal, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026 The decision to have Bad Bunny perform at this year’s halftime show was a calculated move by the NFL and Roc Nation—Jay-Z’s entertainment company that has overseen the halftime show since 2019—to capitalize on the artist’s international appeal. Jake Angelo, Fortune, 8 Feb. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Calculated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/calculated. Accessed 17 Feb. 2026.

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