calcular
verbCEFR B2
What does “calcular” mean in English?
1.to calculate, to estimate
to calculate, to estimate (precise computation or reasoned estimate — calculo que + indicative)
2.to estimate, to calculate
to estimate, to calculate (se calcula que + indicative — impersonal estimation formula; calcular en + figure)
3.to reckon, to predict consequences
to reckon, to predict consequences (figurative: failure to anticipate; no había calculado que + conditional)
Example sentences
Los expertos calculan que el coste de las inundaciones asciende a más de quinientos millones de euros.
Experts calculate that the cost of the floods amounts to more than 500 million euros.
El sistema informático calculó la ruta más eficiente teniendo en cuenta el tráfico en tiempo real.
The computer system calculated the most efficient route taking into account real-time traffic.
Calculo que habremos terminado para el viernes, aunque todo depende de los imprevistos.
I reckon we will have finished by Friday, though it all depends on unforeseen complications.
How to use it
Calcular means 'to calculate', 'to estimate', or 'to work out'. It covers precise mathematical calculation (calcular el área) and looser estimation (calculo que tardará dos horas — I reckon it will take two hours). The second sense — calcular used to make an educated guess — is very common in everyday and formal spoken Spanish: 'calculo que hay unas cien personas'. Don't confuse with estimar (more formal, often larger-scale estimations) or prever (to forecast/anticipate, with a future time orientation).
Common mistake
Calcular que + indicative is a confident estimation (I calculate that...). Don't confuse with creo que (I think — less precise, more opinion-based). The construction calculo que habremos terminado (I estimate we will have finished) is a useful B2 spoken formula for giving measured, tentative timeframes. Also: to say 'I miscalculated' = 'calculé mal', not *'me calculé'.