Reckon

Simple meaning

Reckon means: (1) to calculate or work out a number, (2) to estimate or judge informally, or (3) to believe or think something is the case.

Detailed meaning

Reckon is an old English word with roots in the idea of counting and calculating. Over time, it expanded to cover informal judgement and belief. Today it lives in three related areas:

Meaning 1 — to calculate or compute: "Astronomers reckon the distance in light-years." — a precise calculation.

Meaning 2 — to estimate or judge: "I reckon it'll take about three hours." — an informal estimate.

Meaning 3 — to believe or think: "She's good — I reckon she'll get the job." — an informal opinion.

Meanings 2 and 3 are most common in British and Australian English, where reckon is widely used in everyday conversation as a softer, more casual alternative to think or believe.

The phrase "to be reckoned with" means to be taken seriously as a force or competitor — "She is a force to be reckoned with."

Where to use it

It works well in:

• Casual estimation — "I reckon about 50 people showed up."
• Informal opinion — "I reckon it's the best approach, but I'd want to hear the team's view."
• The fixed phrase — "a force to be reckoned with"

Where not to use it

Reckon is informal in its opinion and estimate meanings. In formal reports, professional presentations, or serious writing, use estimate, believe, or consider instead.

5 example sentences

1. He reckoned the journey would take four hours — he was right to within fifteen minutes.
2. "I reckon she'll be brilliant in the role," said her manager. "She's ready."
3. Scientists reckon the universe is approximately 13.8 billion years old — a figure refined over decades of research.
4. After the launch, she was reckoned among the best product managers in the industry — a reputation built over five careful years.
5. "What do you reckon — should we push the deadline or ask for more resource?"

Common mistakes

Similar & opposite words

Similar (synonyms)

Opposite (antonyms)

Shade of difference: Think and believe are neutral. Reckon is warmer and more casual — it sounds more personal and conversational. Estimate is more precise and technical. Figure (American English) is similar to reckon in British English — both are informal for thinking or estimating.

Memory trick

Summary

Reckon is a versatile, informal verb with three uses: calculating precisely, estimating informally, and expressing a personal belief or opinion. In British and Australian English, it is extremely common in everyday speech. In formal writing, replace it with believe, estimate, or calculate. Its most powerful fixed form — "a force to be reckoned with" — means something to be taken seriously.