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B1 verb #3,000 most common 13 min read

预估

yugu Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 预估 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 预估 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn Chinese. You probably won't use the word '预估' (yùgū) very often yourself, as it's a bit advanced. However, you might see it in simple apps. For example, when you use a map on your phone, you might see '预估时间' (yùgū shíjiān), which means 'estimated time'. At this stage, just remember that '预' means 'before' and '估' is like 'guess'. It's a way to say 'I think it will be this much' for numbers or time. You can think of it as a fancy way of saying 'maybe'. Even though it's a B1 word, knowing the '预' (yù) character is very helpful because it appears in many common words like '预习' (yùxí - to preview a lesson). If you see '预估' in a sentence, look for a number or a time nearby, as that is usually what is being estimated. Don't worry about using it in your own speech yet; focus on understanding it when you see it in apps or on signs.

By the A2 level, you are beginning to handle more practical situations like shopping and basic travel. You might encounter '预估' (yùgū) more frequently in these contexts. For instance, when shopping online, you might see an '预估运费' (yùgū yùnfèi - estimated shipping fee). Understanding this word helps you avoid surprises when you reach the checkout page. You can also start using it in very simple sentences if you want to sound more organized. Instead of just saying '我不知道' (I don't know) when someone asks how long something will take, you could say '我预估要十分钟' (I estimate it will take ten minutes). This shows you are trying to provide helpful information. Remember that '预估' is usually about quantities. If you are guessing what someone likes, don't use this word. But if you are guessing how many people are coming to your party, '预估' is a great, clear word to use.

At the B1 level, '预估' (yùgū) becomes a key part of your vocabulary, especially if you use Chinese for work or study. This is the level where you move from simple descriptions to more complex planning. You should be able to use '预估' to discuss budgets, timelines, and project requirements. You will learn to use it with the '根据' (gēnjù - according to) structure: '根据我的经验，我预估...' (Based on my experience, I estimate...). This allows you to justify your predictions. You will also start to see it in news articles about the economy or the environment. At this stage, you should also be careful not to confuse it with '估计' (gūjì). Use '估计' for casual guesses ('I reckon he's late') and '预估' for more formal, number-based estimates ('I estimate the cost will be 500 yuan'). This distinction will make your Chinese sound much more professional and precise.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '预估' (yùgū) fluently in professional and academic discussions. You should be comfortable using it as both a verb and a noun. For example, you might talk about '初步预估' (preliminary estimates) or '保守预估' (conservative estimates) during a business presentation. You will also encounter it in passive structures, such as '损失被预估为...' (the loss is estimated to be...). At this level, you should also understand the nuance between '预估' and '预测' (yùcè). You '预估' costs and time, but you '预测' market trends or weather patterns. Your ability to choose the correct word shows a high level of linguistic awareness. You might also use it in more abstract ways, like '预估风险' (estimating risks) in a strategic plan. You should be able to read and write reports that use this word to provide data-driven insights.

By the C1 level, '预估' (yùgū) is a word you use with total precision and variety. You understand its role in formal discourse and can use it to discuss complex, multi-faceted scenarios. For instance, you might discuss the '预估偏差' (estimation error) in a scientific study or the '长期预估' (long-term projection) of a government's demographic policy. You are capable of using it in sophisticated sentence patterns, such as '鉴于目前的不确定性，很难给出准确的预估' (Given the current uncertainties, it is difficult to provide an accurate estimate). You also recognize the word in high-level literature or technical journals where it might be used to describe the limits of human foresight. Your use of the word is no longer just about numbers but about the intellectual process of modeling the future based on current variables. You can debate the validity of different '预估' methods in a professional setting.

At the C2 level, '预估' (yùgū) is a tool for nuanced philosophical and strategic communication. You can use it to discuss the epistemological challenges of '预估' in highly volatile systems, such as global financial markets or climate change models. You might use it in a speech to critique overly optimistic '预估' in public policy, using it to highlight the gap between data and reality. At this level, you are also aware of the historical development of the term and how it fits into the broader landscape of Chinese administrative and scientific language. You can use the word in creative ways, perhaps in a literary context to describe a character's attempt to '预估' the path of their own life. Your mastery is such that you can use the word, or intentionally avoid it for a more poetic alternative, to achieve exactly the right tone and impact in any given situation, from a high-stakes negotiation to a deep academic lecture.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

预估 in 30 Seconds

预估 means to estimate future values like cost or time based on current information. It is a more formal and data-driven alternative to simple guessing.
Commonly used in business, logistics, and planning. It acts as both a verb ('to estimate') and a noun ('an estimation') in professional contexts.
Do not confuse with 估计 (casual guessing) or 预测 (predicting events). 预估 specifically focuses on measurable quantities like money, time, or population.
Structure often involves '根据' (based on) to show the logic behind the estimate. It is essential for B1 learners aiming for professional Chinese proficiency.

The Chinese verb 预估 (yùgū) is a foundational term for anyone moving beyond basic conversational Chinese into professional, academic, or organized social environments. At its core, it combines two characters: 预 (yù), meaning 'in advance' or 'pre-', and 估 (gū), meaning 'to appraise' or 'to estimate'. Together, they form a word that specifically refers to the act of making a calculated guess or a data-driven prediction about a future value, quantity, or outcome. Unlike a simple 'guess' (猜 cāi), 预估 implies a level of reasoning or the use of existing information to arrive at a conclusion. It is the language of planners, project managers, economists, and even casual travelers who are trying to figure out how much time or money a certain activity will require.

Professional Context: In a business setting, 预估 is used for financial forecasting, such as estimating next quarter's revenue or the total cost of a new marketing campaign. It suggests that the speaker has looked at the numbers and is providing an educated projection.

我们需要对下个季度的销售额进行预估。 (Wǒmen xūyào duì xià gè jìdù de xiāoshòu'é jìnxíng yùgū. - We need to make an estimate for next quarter's sales volume.)

In daily life, you might use 预估 when talking about time. For instance, if you are inviting friends over for dinner, you might estimate the time it will take to prepare the meal. While 估计 (gūjì) is also used for 'estimate', 预估 feels slightly more formal and is often preferred when the estimation is part of a deliberate planning process. It is frequently seen in news reports regarding population growth, economic trends, and environmental changes. The word conveys a sense of forward-looking analysis that is essential for effective communication in Chinese-speaking workplaces.

Data-Driven Nature: The term is often paired with nouns like 'cost' (成本), 'time' (时间), or 'risk' (风险). It indicates that the estimation isn't just a random thought but is based on some form of preliminary research or historical data.

专家预估今年房价会保持稳定。 (Zhuānjiā yùgū jīnnián fángjià huì bǎochí wěndìng. - Experts estimate that housing prices will remain stable this year.)

Furthermore, 预估 acts as both a verb and a noun in many contexts, though its verbal usage is most common. You can 'perform a 预估' (进行预估) or simply '预估 something'. This flexibility makes it a versatile tool for your vocabulary. Understanding the nuance of 预估 helps you navigate conversations where precision and planning are valued. It shows that you are not just guessing wildly, but are engaging in a thoughtful process of anticipation. Whether you are dealing with a construction project, a software development timeline, or a simple budget for a vacation, 预估 is the word that bridges the gap between current knowledge and future possibilities.

Common Collocations: Commonly used with 'value' (价值), 'quantity' (数量), and 'impact' (影响). It is often preceded by adverbs like 'roughly' (初步) or 'accurately' (准确).

这笔工程的费用初步预估为一百万元。 (Zhè bǐ gōngchéng de fèiyòng chūbù yùgū wèi yī bǎi wàn yuán. - The cost of this project is initially estimated at one million yuan.)

根据目前的进度，我预估还需要三天时间。 (Gēnjù mùqián de jìndù, wǒ yùgū hái xūyào sān tiān shíjiān. - Based on the current progress, I estimate that three more days are needed.)

Using 预估 (yùgū) correctly requires understanding its role as a transitive verb that often takes specific objects related to measurement, time, or value. The basic sentence structure is [Subject] + [预估] + [Noun Phrase/Clause]. However, because it is often used in professional contexts, it frequently appears in more complex structures involving prepositions like 'according to' (根据) or 'based on' (基于).

Direct Object Usage: The most straightforward way to use 预估 is to place the thing being estimated directly after the verb. This is common when the object is a specific number or amount.

财务部正在预估明年的预算。 (Cáiwù bù zhèngzài yùgū míngnián de yùsuàn. - The finance department is estimating next year's budget.)

Another common pattern involves using 预估 followed by a clause. This allows you to estimate a whole situation or a result. For example, 'I estimate that he will arrive at five o'clock.' In this case, 'he will arrive at five o'clock' is the clause acting as the object of the verb. This is very useful for expressing expectations about future events.

Clause as Object: This structure is used to describe a predicted scenario rather than just a single number. It adds depth to your predictions.

我们预估这次活动的参与人数将超过五百人。 (Wǒmen yùgū zhè cì huódòng de cānyù rénshù jiāng chāoguò wǔbǎi rén. - We estimate that the number of participants for this event will exceed five hundred.)

When you want to specify the basis of your estimate, you should use the '根据...预估' pattern. This provides credibility to your statement by showing the logic behind your calculation. It is nearly identical to saying 'Based on... I estimate...' in English. This is particularly important in reports where you need to justify your figures.

The 'Based On' Pattern: Structure: [根据/基于] + [Data/Evidence] + [Subject] + [预估] + [Object].

根据过去三年的数据，我们预估市场需求会持续增长。 (Gēnjù guòqù sān nián de shùjù, wǒmen yùgū shìchǎng xūqiú huì chíxù zēngzhǎng. - Based on the data from the past three years, we estimate that market demand will continue to grow.)

Finally, 预估 can be modified by adverbs to show the degree of certainty or the stage of the estimation. Common adverbs include '初步' (chūbù - preliminary), '保守' (bǎoshǒu - conservative), and '乐观' (lèguān - optimistic). These modifiers are essential for nuanced communication in finance and project management.

即使是保守预估，项目的利润也非常可观。 (Jíshǐ shì bǎoshǒu yùgū, xiàngmù de lìrùn yě fēicháng kěguān. - Even by conservative estimates, the project's profit is very substantial.)

失业率被预估为百分之五。 (Shīyè lǜ bèi yùgū wèi bǎi fēn zhī wǔ. - The unemployment rate is estimated to be five percent.)

In contemporary Chinese society, 预估 (yùgū) is a word that rings through the halls of corporate offices, pops up in news broadcasts, and is found in the technical documentation of tech startups. It is the language of the 'Data Age.' If you listen to a business podcast like 'First Finance' (第一财经) or read articles on platforms like '36Kr', you will encounter this word constantly. It reflects a societal shift toward quantitative analysis and long-term planning.

In the Workplace: During a 'Weekly Meeting' (周会), a project lead might ask, '你能预估一下完成这个任务需要多久吗？' (Can you estimate how long it will take to complete this task?). This is a standard way to ask for a deadline without being too demanding.

大家对这个新产品的市场反响有什么预估吗？ (Dàjiā duì zhège xīn chǎnpǐn de shìchǎng fǎnxiǎng yǒu shé me yùgū ma? - Does everyone have an estimate for the market response to this new product?)

You will also hear this word frequently in logistics and transportation. If you use a ride-hailing app like Didi, the app will '预估到达时间' (estimate arrival time) or '预估费用' (estimate cost). This real-time application of the word shows its relevance in the digital lives of Chinese citizens. It provides users with a sense of certainty in an uncertain urban environment. Similarly, on e-commerce platforms like Taobao, you might see '预估到手价' (estimated final price after discounts), which helps shoppers make informed decisions during sales festivals like Double 11.

News and Media: News anchors use 预估 when discussing government policies or natural events. For example, during a typhoon season, the weather bureau might '预估降雨量' (estimate rainfall amount).

气象台预估，强降雨将持续到周五。 (Qìxiàngtái yùgū, qiáng jiàngyǔ jiāng chíxù dào zhōuwǔ. - The observatory estimates that heavy rain will continue until Friday.)

In academia, particularly in the social sciences and engineering, 预估 is a technical term used in research papers. When researchers build models to simulate future scenarios, they use 预估 to describe the output of those models. It carries a weight of scientific validity that other words for 'guess' lack. For a student studying in China, hearing a professor say '基于这个模型，我们可以预估...' (Based on this model, we can estimate...) is a signal to pay attention to the predictive power of the theory being taught.

In Everyday Conversations: Even in casual chats about travel or life changes, 预估 pops up. '你预估我们几点能到？' (What time do you estimate we can arrive?) is a common way to check progress during a road trip.

我预估这次装修要花不少钱。 (Wǒ yùgū zhè cì zhuāngxiū yào huā bù shǎo qián. - I estimate this renovation will cost quite a bit of money.)

房地产中介预估这套房子的租金在五千元左右。 (Fángdìchǎn zhōngjiè yùgū zhè tào fángzi de zūjīn zài wǔqiān yuán zuǒyòu. - The real estate agent estimates the rent for this apartment to be around five thousand yuan.)

While 预估 (yùgū) is a useful word, learners often confuse it with similar-sounding or similar-meaning terms. The most common mistake is using it for things that have already occurred. Because the character 预 (yù) means 'beforehand', 预估 is strictly for future or unknown quantities. You cannot '预估' why you were late yesterday; for that, you would use 解释 (jiěshì - explain) or 分析 (fēnxī - analyze).

Confusion with 估计 (gūjì): Many learners use these interchangeably. While similar, 估计 is more subjective and common in daily speech (e.g., 'I reckon it will rain'). 预估 is more formal and usually involves numbers or specific data points. Using 预估 for a simple guess about a friend's mood would sound very strange.

❌ 我预估他今天心情不好。 (Wǒ yùgū tā jīntiān xīnqíng bù hǎo.)
✅ 我估计他今天心情不好。 (I reckon he's in a bad mood today.)

Another mistake is confusing 预估 with 预测 (yùcè). While both look at the future, 预测 is 'prediction' and often refers to events or trends (like the weather or election results). 预估 is 'estimation' and usually refers to measurable quantities (like costs or time). You 预测 a winner, but you 预估 the margin of victory. Mixing these up can make your professional Chinese sound imprecise.

Confusion with 预测 (yùcè): Use 预测 for 'what' will happen. Use 预估 for 'how much/long' it will be.

❌ 我们预估明天会下雨。 (Wǒmen yùgū míngtiān huì xiàyǔ.)
✅ 我们预测明天会下雨。 (We predict it will rain tomorrow.)

A structural mistake involves the use of '进行' (jìnxíng). While you can say '进行预估', you cannot say '进行预估销售额' directly. It must be '对销售额进行预估' (perform an estimation on sales volume). This is a common grammatical hurdle for English speakers who are used to the 'perform [verb] [object]' structure. In Chinese, the object of the estimation must be introduced with '对' (duì) when using '进行'.

❌ 我们要进行预估成本。 (Wǒmen yào jìnxíng yùgū chéngběn.)
✅ 我们要对成本进行预估。 (We need to perform an estimation of the costs.)

Lastly, be careful with the level of formality. Using 预估 in a very casual setting, like asking a friend how many dumplings they want to eat, sounds overly robotic. In that case, use the simple '想' (xiǎng - want) or '要' (yào - need). Reserve 预估 for situations where some degree of 'calculation' is implied. Overusing formal vocabulary in casual settings is a sign of a learner who hasn't yet mastered the 'register' or social context of the language.

❌ 你预估你想喝几杯咖啡？ (Nǐ yùgū nǐ xiǎng hē jǐ bēi kāfēi?)
✅ 你想喝几杯咖啡？ (How many cups of coffee do you want?)

To truly master 预估 (yùgū), you must understand its place within a family of words related to guessing, estimating, and predicting. Each word has a specific 'flavor' and is used in different contexts. Choosing the right one will make your Chinese sound much more natural and precise.

估计 (gūjì) vs. 预估 (yùgū): 估计 is the most general term for 'estimate' or 'reckon'. It can be used for past, present, and future events. It is more subjective and common in daily speech. 预估 is more formal and focused on future data-driven calculations.

我估计他已经走了。 (I reckon he's already left - Past/General)
我预估这个项目需要三个月。 (I estimate this project will take three months - Future/Data-driven)

Then there is 预测 (yùcè), which is often translated as 'predict' or 'forecast'. While 预估 focuses on 'how much' (quantities), 预测 focuses on 'what' (events or trends). You '预测' an earthquake or a stock market crash, but you '预估' the financial loss from such an event. 预测 often implies a more complex scientific or statistical model.

预测 (yùcè) vs. 预估 (yùgū): 预测 = Predicting events/trends (What will happen?).
预估 = Estimating values/quantities (How much will it be?).

Another related word is 评估 (pínggū), which means 'evaluate' or 'assess'. The key difference here is the timeline. 预估 is looking forward (pre-estimation), while 评估 is often looking at something that already exists or has already happened to judge its value or quality. You 评估 a student's performance or 评估 the damage after a storm.

评估 (pínggū) vs. 预估 (yùgū): 评估 = Assessment of current/past state.
预估 = Estimation of future state.

Lastly, in very formal or mathematical contexts, you might see 推算 (tuīsuàn), which means 'calculate' or 'extrapolate'. This word implies a rigorous mathematical process. If you are solving a physics problem to find the future position of a planet, you are '推算'-ing it. 预估 is slightly more flexible and can be used even if the calculation isn't purely mathematical.

科学家正在推算彗星的轨道。 (Scientists are calculating the comet's orbit.)
经理正在预估下周的人手需求。 (The manager is estimating next week's staffing needs.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '预' (yù) is the same one used in '预报' (yùbào - forecast), like in weather forecasting. It highlights the forward-looking nature of the word. In ancient times, '估' was often used by merchants to appraise silk or grain prices.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /juː ɡuː/

US /ju ɡu/

In Chinese, both syllables are equally stressed, but the fourth tone on 'yù' (falling) makes it sound more forceful than the first tone 'gū' (high level).

Rhymes With

剧目 (jùmù) 赋予 (fùyǔ) 复古 (fùgǔ) 玉兔 (yùtù) 由于 (yóuyú) 富裕 (fùyù) 教育 (jiàoyù) 遭遇 (zāoyù)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'yu' like the 'u' in 'under' instead of the rounded 'ü'.
Confusing the fourth tone of 'yù' with the second tone (yú).
Pronouncing 'gu' as 'ju' (like the start of 'jump').
Failing to keep the 'gū' tone high and level.
Treating it as a single-syllable word.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The characters are common but '预' has many strokes. Recognizing it in professional texts is key.

Writing 4/5

Writing '预' (yù) correctly requires practice with stroke order. Using it in formal structures is a B1 skill.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is relatively easy, but choosing it over '估计' requires contextual awareness.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognized in business and app contexts due to frequent use.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

预 (yù) 估 (gū) 估计 (gūjì) 时间 (shíjiān) 钱 (qián)

Learn Next

预测 (yùcè) 评估 (pínggū) 预算 (yùsuàn) 风险 (fēngxiǎn) 趋势 (qūshì)

Advanced

推算 (tuīsuàn) 测算 (cèsuàn) 量化 (liànghuà) 偏差 (piānchā) 模型 (móxíng)

Grammar to Know

Using '对...进行' for formal verbs

我们要对成本进行预估。 (We need to estimate the costs.)

Using '被' for passive estimation

损失被预估为一百万。 (The loss is estimated to be one million.)

Using '将' for formal future

预估人数将达到五百。 (The estimated number of people will reach five hundred.)

Using '根据' as a preposition

根据数据，我们做出预估。 (Based on data, we make an estimate.)

Using '为' to indicate the estimated value

预估值为十。 (The estimated value is ten.)

Examples by Level

预估时间是十分钟。

The estimated time is ten minutes.

Simple Subject + Verb/Noun phrase structure.

我预估有五个人。

I estimate there are five people.

Subject + 预估 + Number phrase.

预估费用很低。

The estimated cost is very low.

预估 as an adjective-like modifier for 'cost'.

APP预估我们要走一里路。

The app estimates we need to walk one kilometer.

Noun (APP) as the subject performing the estimation.

老师预估考试不难。

The teacher estimates the exam won't be hard.

Subject + 预估 + Clause (the exam is not hard).

预估今天不热。

Estimated that today won't be hot.

Impersonal use of 预估 at the start of a sentence.

我预估他三点到。

I estimate he will arrive at three.

Subject + 预估 + Time clause.

这里的预估价格是多少？

What is the estimated price here?

Using 预估 to modify 'price' in a question.

滴滴预估车费是二十元。

Didi estimates the car fare is twenty yuan.

Specific brand name as subject.

我们预估明天会很忙。

We estimate tomorrow will be very busy.

Expressing a simple future expectation.

医生预估他要休息一周。

The doctor estimates he needs to rest for a week.

Professional estimation in a medical context.

预估今天会有很多人买东西。

It is estimated that many people will buy things today.

Using 预估 to start a sentence about a general situation.

我预估这件衣服不贵。

I estimate these clothes are not expensive.

Subjective but price-focused estimate.

根据天气，我预估会下雨。

Based on the weather, I estimate it will rain.

Simple use of '根据' (based on).

他们预估电影长两小时。

They estimate the movie is two hours long.

Estimating duration.

初步预估，我们需要十个苹果。

Preliminary estimate, we need ten apples.

Using '初步' (preliminary) as a modifier.

根据目前的进度，我预估项目下周完成。

Based on the current progress, I estimate the project will be finished next week.

Standard B1 'According to... I estimate...' structure.

财务部预估了下个月的开支。

The finance department estimated next month's expenses.

Using the particle '了' for a completed action of estimating.

我们需要对装修费用进行预估。

We need to carry out an estimation of the renovation costs.

Formal '对...进行预估' structure.

专家预估市场需求将持续上升。

Experts estimate that market demand will continue to rise.

Using '将' for formal future prediction.

保守预估，至少有两百人参加。

By conservative estimates, at least two hundred people will participate.

Using '保守预估' as an adverbial phrase.

这个预估结果比实际情况高了一点。

This estimated result is a bit higher than the actual situation.

Using 预估 as a noun/modifier.

你能不能预估一下修好手机要多少钱？

Can you estimate how much it will cost to fix the phone?

Using '一下' to soften the request.

我们正在对风险进行初步预估。

We are currently conducting a preliminary risk assessment/estimate.

Continuous action '正在' with formal structure.

由于原材料涨价，我们需要重新预估成本。

Due to the rise in raw material prices, we need to re-estimate the costs.

Using '由于' (due to) and '重新' (re-).

该报告预估全球气温将继续升高。

The report estimates that global temperatures will continue to rise.

Formal subject '该报告' (the said report).

我们不能仅凭直觉来预估销售额。

We cannot estimate sales volume based solely on intuition.

Using '仅凭...来...' (rely solely on... to...).

乐观预估，我们年底就能盈利。

By optimistic estimates, we can turn a profit by the end of the year.

Nuanced adverbial '乐观预估'.

政府预估这项政策将惠及数百万家庭。

The government estimates that this policy will benefit millions of families.

High-level vocabulary '惠及' (benefit).

这些数据为我们的预估提供了有力支持。

These data provide strong support for our estimates.

预估 used as a noun with '提供支持'.

在没有充分数据的情况下，很难做出准确预估。

In the absence of sufficient data, it is difficult to make an accurate estimate.

Complex conditional phrase '在...的情况下'.

失业率被预估为过去十年来的最低点。

The unemployment rate is estimated to be at its lowest point in the last ten years.

Passive voice '被...为'.

经济学家对通胀趋势的预估存在明显分歧。

There is a clear divergence in economists' estimates of inflation trends.

Complex noun phrase '对...的预估'.

预估结果的准确性取决于模型的科学性。

The accuracy of the estimated results depends on the scientific nature of the model.

Abstract subject and predicate.

我们需要对潜在的法律风险进行全面预估。

We need to conduct a comprehensive estimate of potential legal risks.

Using '潜在' (potential) and '全面' (comprehensive).

尽管目前形势严峻，但长期的预估依然向好。

Despite the current grim situation, the long-term projections remain positive.

Concessive '尽管...但...' structure.

这种预估方法在处理非线性数据时具有优势。

This estimation method has advantages when dealing with non-linear data.

Technical academic Chinese.

预估不仅是一种数学计算，更是一种战略考量。

Estimation is not just a mathematical calculation, but also a strategic consideration.

Using '不仅...更...' for emphasis.

任何预估都不可避免地带有一定的主观性。

Any estimate inevitably carries a certain degree of subjectivity.

Using '不可避免地' (inevitably).

他精准地预估了技术变革对行业的影响。

He accurately estimated the impact of technological changes on the industry.

Using the adverb '精准地' (precisely).

在地缘政治博弈中，对对手意图的预估至关重要。

In geopolitical games, the estimation of the opponent's intentions is crucial.

Highly formal academic/political register.

该研究旨在修正先前对气候变迁影响的预估。

The study aims to revise previous estimates of the impact of climate change.

Using '旨在' (aims to) and '修正' (revise).

过分依赖量化预估可能会忽视人的因素。

Over-reliance on quantitative estimates might lead to ignoring human factors.

Philosophical critique of methodology.

历史证明，许多宏大的经济预估最终都落空了。

History has proven that many grand economic estimates eventually fell through.

Reflective and critical tone.

这种预估的偏差源于对初始变量的微小误判。

The deviation in this estimate stems from a slight misjudgment of initial variables.

Scientific precision in language.

我们需要在不确定的迷雾中做出最为审慎的预估。

We need to make the most prudent estimates amidst the fog of uncertainty.

Metaphorical and literary formal Chinese.

预估的真正价值在于它为决策提供的参考框架。

The true value of an estimate lies in the reference framework it provides for decision-making.

Defining an abstract concept.

他以敏锐的洞察力，对未来的社会结构进行了预估。

With keen insight, he made an estimation of the future social structure.

Using '以...的洞察力' (with ... insight).

Synonyms

估计预测推测估算预期

Antonyms

确定核实

Common Collocations

预估成本

预估时间

预估价值

初步预估

保守预估

预估风险

准确预估

预估销量

预估寿命

重新预估

Common Phrases

预估到手价

— The estimated final price a customer pays after all discounts and coupons are applied. Very common in e-commerce.

双十一期间，这款手机的预估到手价是三千元。

预估到达时间

— Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA). Used in maps and travel apps.

预估到达时间为下午两点。

超出预估

— To exceed the initial estimate. Often used for costs or time.

装修费远远超出了我们的预估。

低于预估

— To be lower than the initial estimate.

实际参与人数低于预估。

进行预估

— To perform an estimation. A formal way to use the word.

我们要对市场进行预估。

乐观预估

— An optimistic estimate, assuming the best-case scenario.

乐观预估的话，我们明天就能修好。

误差预估

— An estimate of potential error or deviation.

我们需要考虑误差预估。

预估值

— The estimated value (noun).

请在表格中填写预估值。

长期预估

— A long-term estimation or projection.

这是对未来十年的长期预估。

预估能力

— The ability to estimate things accurately.

作为一个经理，预估能力很重要。

Often Confused With

预估 vs 估计

估计 is more common for casual guesses or thoughts about the past/present. 预估 is for future data-driven estimates.

预估 vs 预测

预测 is for events (weather, elections). 预估 is for quantities (costs, time).

预估 vs 评估

评估 is for evaluating something that already exists. 预估 is for something that hasn't happened yet.

Idioms & Expressions

"未雨绸缪"

— To plan ahead or prepare for a rainy day. While not using the word 预估, it represents the cultural value of estimating and preparing for the future.

我们要未雨绸缪，对风险进行预估。

Literary/Formal

"胸有成竹"

— To have a well-thought-out plan in mind. Implies that one has already estimated the situation successfully.

他对这个项目的预估非常准确，所以胸有成竹。

Literary/Formal

"不出所料"

— As expected; just as predicted. Used when a 预估 turns out to be correct.

不出所料，实际成本和预估的一样。

Neutral/Formal

"大失所望"

— To be greatly disappointed. Often used when the actual result is much worse than the 预估.

实际销量让他大失所望，远低于预估。

Neutral/Formal

"心中有数"

— To have a clear idea or understanding of a situation, often through estimation.

对于明年的计划，我心里已经有了预估，胸中有数。

Idiomatic/Casual

"料事如神"

— To predict things with uncanny accuracy, like a god.

他预估市场走势料事如神。

Literary/Praising

"防患未然"

— To prevent trouble before it happens. Requires accurate 预估 of risks.

通过预估潜在问题，我们可以防患未然。

Formal

"计日程功"

— To be able to predict the completion of a project day by day. Implies precise 预估 of time.

这个工程进展顺利，可以计日程功了。

Literary

"事与愿违"

— Things turn out contrary to one's wishes or estimates.

虽然预估很好，但结果却事与愿违。

Literary/Formal

"八九不离十"

— Very close; almost accurate. Used to describe a good 预估.

我的预估大概八九不离十。

Colloquial

Easily Confused

预估 vs 预报

Both start with 预 (pre-).

预报 is specifically for 'announcing' a forecast (like weather or news). 预估 is the act of 'calculating' the estimate.

天气预报说会下雨，我预估降雨量很大。

预估 vs 预约

Both start with 预 (pre-).

预约 is to make an appointment or reservation. 预估 is to estimate a value.

我预约了医生，并预估了看病的时间。

预估 vs 预算

Both relate to future money/planning.

预算 is a 'budget' (a plan for spending). 预估 is an 'estimate' (a calculation of what might happen).

根据我的预估，这个项目的花费会超出预算。

预估 vs 估价

Both involve the character 估 (evaluate).

估价 is specifically for 'appraising' the monetary price of an object. 预估 can be used for time, quantity, or cost.

专家对古董进行了估价，预估它能卖一百万。

预估 vs 预计

Very similar in meaning.

预计 is 'expected to' and often acts as an auxiliary verb. 预估 is more of a formal 'estimation' process.

火车预计三点到，我预估三点半能回家。

Sentence Patterns

预估时间是 [Time].

预估时间是三十分钟。

我预估要 [Amount] [Noun].

我预估要五个小时。

根据 [Data], 我预估 [Clause].

根据经验，我预估他会迟到。

对 [Object] 进行预估.

我们要对风险进行预估。

[Subject] 被预估为 [Value].

总价被预估为两千元。

[Adverb] 预估, [Clause].

保守预估，我们要花三天。

对 [Noun] 的预估取决于 [Noun].

对成本的预估取决于原材料价格。

[Noun] 旨在修正对 [Noun] 的预估.

该报告旨在修正对通胀的预估。

Word Family

Nouns

预估值 (yùgūzhí - estimated value)

预估量 (yùgūliàng - estimated amount)

Verbs

预估 (yùgū - to estimate)

重估 (chónggū - to re-evaluate)

Adjectives

预估的 (yùgū de - estimated)

估计 (gūjì)

估价 (gūjià)

预算 (yùsuàn)

预警 (yùjǐng)

预期 (yùqī)

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in professional, technical, and digital contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 预估 for past events. → 我估计他昨天没来。
预估 is for the future or unknown values based on data. Use 估计 for past guesses.
Using 预估 for feelings or moods. → 我觉得他今天不开心。
预估 is for quantitative data (time, money, numbers). It's too robotic for emotions.
Saying '进行预估成本'. → 对成本进行预估。
When using '进行', the object must be introduced by '对'. You cannot put the object directly after the formal verb phrase.
Confusing 预估 with 预测 for weather. → 气象局预测明天有雨。
Weather events are 'forecasted' (预测). The amount of rain is 'estimated' (预估).
Using 预估 without a number or quantity. → 我预估会有十个人参加。
预估 usually requires a measurable outcome. Using it for abstract ideas without a quantity sounds incomplete.

Tips

Use with '对...进行'

In formal writing, instead of '预估成本', use '对成本进行预估'. This makes your Chinese sound much more professional and sophisticated.

Pair with '左右'

Since 预估 is an estimate, it's natural to add '左右' (zuǒyòu - around) after the number. For example: '预估费用在五百元左右'.

Business Essential

If you work in a Chinese office, master this word for project timelines. '预估工期' (estimating the construction/work period) is a daily phrase.

App Usage

When using Chinese apps, look for '预估'. It's usually next to a price or a time. Knowing this prevents confusion during checkout or travel.

Don't Overuse

Avoid using 预估 for very casual things like 'I estimate I'll eat two apples'. It sounds like you're treating your snack like a corporate project.

Use Modifiers

Combine with '初步' (preliminary), '保守' (conservative), or '乐观' (optimistic) to express different levels of certainty.

Remember 'Yu'

Think of '预' as 'pre-'. Any word starting with '预' involves doing something in advance (preview, prepare, pre-estimate).

The 'Based On' Pattern

Always try to start your sentence with '根据...' when using 预估. It provides the 'why' behind your estimate.

Tone Accuracy

Focus on the falling 4th tone of 'yù'. If you say it like a rising 2nd tone, it might be confused with 'fish' (yú).

Key Indicators

In news broadcasts, 预估 is often followed by the word '将' (jiāng), which indicates a future action or state.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'YU' as 'YOU' and 'GU' as 'GUESS'. 'YOU GUESS' in advance. Or, remember that 'YU' is the 'pre' in 'PREview' (预习) and 'GU' is the 'estimate' in 'estimate' (估计).

Visual Association

Imagine a person looking at a crystal ball, but instead of magic, they are holding a calculator and a spreadsheet. This represents the 'data-driven prediction' of 预估.

Word Web

预估 (yùgū) 预算 (yùsuàn - budget) 预测 (yùcè - predict) 预习 (yùxí - preview) 预约 (yùyuē - appointment) 预定 (yùdìng - book) 估价 (gūjià - appraise) 估计 (gūjì - estimate)

Challenge

Try to use 预估 in three different contexts today: once for time (travel), once for money (shopping), and once for work (a task deadline).

Word Origin

The word is a compound of two ancient Chinese characters. '预' (yù) dates back to the Oracle Bone Script, originally meaning 'relaxed' or 'content', but evolved to mean 'in advance' or 'prepared'. '估' (gū) relates to evaluating the value of goods, often in a market setting.

Original meaning: The combination specifically refers to the act of evaluating or calculating something before it has fully manifested or arrived.

Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic branch.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 预估 for people's personal lives (e.g., estimating a child's height or a friend's salary), as it can sound overly clinical or rude.

English speakers often use 'estimate' for everything. In Chinese, remember to distinguish between the formal '预估' and the casual '估计'.

Used in Jack Ma's speeches regarding the future of e-commerce. Commonly found in the 'Blue Books' (official government reports) of China. Featured in the 'Big Data' era slogans across Chinese tech hubs like Shenzhen.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Meetings

预估成本
预估销售额
进行初步预估
预估项目进度

Using Travel Apps

预估到达时间
预估车费
预估里程
预估等待时间

Online Shopping

预估到手价
预估运费
预估发货时间
预估优惠金额

Academic Research

预估模型
预估误差
预估趋势
对变量进行预估

Daily Planning

预估开销
预估人数
预估天气
预估时间安排

Conversation Starters

"你能预估一下完成这个报告需要多久吗？"

"你对明年的旅游预算有什么预估？"

"根据你的经验，你预估这次活动的参与人数是多少？"

"大家对这个新功能的市场反馈有预估吗？"

"你预估我们几点能出发去机场？"

Journal Prompts

预估一下你未来五年的职业发展，你希望能达到什么样的目标？

回顾一次你的预估与实际情况大不相同的经历，学到了什么？

如果你要策划一个大型派对，你会如何预估各项费用？

你认为在大数据时代，人类的预估能力是增强了还是减弱了？

预估一下学习中文对你未来生活的影响。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 预估 is specifically for future or unknown values. If you want to guess about something in the past, use 估计 (gūjì). For example, 'I reckon he left' is '我估计他走了', not '预估'.

It can be both. As a verb: '我们要预估费用' (We need to estimate costs). As a noun: '这是一个初步预估' (This is a preliminary estimate).

预估 is for 'how much' (quantities, values). 预测 is for 'what' (events, trends). You 预测 weather, but you 预估 rainfall amount.

You say '保守预估' (bǎoshǒu yùgū). This is very common in financial contexts.

Generally, no. It sounds too clinical. Use 觉得 (juéde) or 估计 (gūjì) for guessing someone's mood or thoughts.

It is used in both, but it's very common in apps (like Didi or Taobao) and for planning tasks. It's slightly more formal than 估计.

The pattern is '根据 [Data], [Subject] 预估 [Object]'. For example: '根据天气，我预估今天不冷' (Based on the weather, I estimate it's not cold today).

It means 'Estimated Final Price'. You see this on shopping sites like Taobao to show what you will pay after discounts.

Yes, it is neutral to formal. It is the preferred word in professional settings and reports.

Yes, '进行预估' is a common formal way to say 'to perform an estimation'. Just remember to use '对' to introduce the object.