to a first approximation

2 definitions found

to a first approximation - Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (26 May 2007) :

  to a first approximation
  
     1. When one is doing certain numerical computations, an
     approximate solution may be computed by any of several
     heuristic methods, then refined to a final value.  By using
     the starting point of a first approximation of the answer, one
     can write an algorithm that converges more quickly to the
     correct result.
  
     2. In jargon, a preface to any comment that indicates that the
     comment is only approximately true.  The remark "To a first
     approximation, I feel good" might indicate that deeper
     questioning would reveal that not all is perfect (e.g. a
     nagging cough still remains after an illness).
  
     [Jargon File]
  

to a first approximation - Jargon File (4.4.4, 14 Aug 2003) :

  to a first approximation
   adj.
  
     1. [techspeak] When one is doing certain numerical computations, an
     approximate solution may be computed by any of several heuristic
     methods, then refined to a final value. By using the starting point
  of
     a first approximation of the answer, one can write an algorithm that
     converges more quickly to the correct result.
  
     2. In jargon, a preface to any comment that indicates that the
  comment
     is only approximately true. The remark "To a first approximation, I
     feel good" might indicate that deeper questioning would reveal that
     not all is perfect (e.g., a nagging cough still remains after an
     illness).