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

• advised
• considered
• deliberate
• knowing
• measured
• reasoned
• studied
• thought-out
• thoughtful
• weighed

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

These stories remind teams that bold ideas can emerge even from challenges, encouraging them to take calculated risks and think outside the box. —Paola Cecchi-Dimeglio, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025

This is especially pivotal for those feeling stagnant or in need of change — consider this your green light to take calculated risks. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 13 Jan. 2025

But, a lot like how Manning’s calculated recruitment played out, the plan was always in place. —Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Jan. 2025

Rather than signaling isolation, Trump’s campaign pledges are interpreted in the global South as a calculated strategy of revisionism—a bid to restore U.S. primacy by making other countries pay heed, align with Washington, or be left vulnerable in an increasingly uncertain order. —Matias Spektor, Foreign Affairs, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

from past participle of calculate

First Known Use

1723, in the meaning defined at sense 1