first approximation
[fɜrst əˈprɒksɪmeɪʃən]
nounpl: first approximations
primeira aproximação
1. An initial or preliminary estimate or calculation that is close to the actual value but not exact; a simplified version of a solution used as a starting point for further refinement
As a first approximation, we can assume that the friction force is negligible in this physics problem.
Como uma primeira aproximação, podemos assumir que a força de atrito é negligenciável neste problema de física.
2. A rough or tentative assessment or understanding of something complex before a more detailed analysis
As a first approximation, the company's revenue growth appears to be linear.
Como uma primeira aproximação, o crescimento de receita da empresa parece ser linear.
This term is predominantly used in academic, scientific, and technical contexts in both English-speaking countries and Brazil. It reflects the iterative nature of problem-solving in mathematics, engineering, and physics, where professionals often start with simplified models before advancing to more complex analyses. The phrase is particularly common in university curricula and professional technical discussions.
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