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Synonyms

calculating

American  
[kal-kyuh-ley-ting] / ˈkæl kyəˌleɪ tɪŋ /

adjective

  1. capable of or made for performing calculations, especially arithmetical calculations.

    a calculating machine.

  2. shrewd; cautious.

    a wise and calculating lawyer.

  3. selfishly scheming.

    a cold and calculating dictator.

    Synonyms:
    designing

calculating British  
/ ˈkælkjʊˌleɪtɪŋ /

adjective

  1. selfishly scheming

  2. shrewd; cautious

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • calculatingly adverb
  • noncalculating adjective
  • uncalculating adjective
  • uncalculatingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of calculating

First recorded in 1800–10; calculat(e) + -ing 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He watched, his contempt spilling over, calculating whether I was worth competing for.

From Los Angeles Times

More than 75,000 non-domestic properties have been revalued as part of a new list used in calculating business rates - an annual property tax that helps fund public services.

From BBC

The formula for calculating family maximums is somewhat complex, but the agency explains it in detail here if you want to dive into the specifics.

From MarketWatch

When she was cautious, it was interpreted as calculating rather than strategic.

From Salon

Kovrig described Chinese negotiators as "extremely adroit, calculating, and always looking for leverage".

From BBC