Miscompute

To calculate or compute incorrectly; to arrive at a wrong numerical result or conclusion through errors in calculation, understanding of formulas, or data input. This implies a failure in the process of computation, leading to an inaccurate outcome. The error can stem from various sources, including human error, faulty algorithms, programming bugs, or misleading data. Miscomputing often leads to flawed decision-making, wasted resources, or inaccurate predictions. The term stresses the act of performing calculations rather than simply misunderstanding concepts, and typically involves arithmetic or mathematical processing, even if that is by a machine. The result can range from a minor inconvenience to a major disaster depending on the circumstances.

Miscompute meaning with examples

• The accountant's tax return included a significant miscompute, accidentally adding a deduction twice. This meant the company's tax liability was considerably underestimated, and led to an unexpected audit and penalties. The accountant frantically reviewed their spreadsheet, realizing that the software had briefly glitched. Repairing the error was a long and arduous process, correcting multiple related ledgers and reports.
• During the rocket launch simulation, a subtle software bug caused the guidance system to miscompute trajectory corrections. This meant that the simulated rocket veered off course. Despite advanced warning systems, the severity of the error was underestimated. The developers raced to fix the bug before the live launch in order to avoid potential disasters which could result in expensive material loss and, worse still, potential injury.
• When analyzing the sales figures for the quarter, the marketing team miscomputed the percentage increase in online orders, claiming an impressive surge when, in reality, the growth was much smaller. This inflated the impact of their campaign, and the inaccurate data skewed future budget allocations. The correction forced an adjustment of strategies and a re-evaluation of previous expectations. The error resulted in a drop in team morale.
• The climate modelers, testing a new algorithm, encountered a consistent tendency to miscompute rainfall levels. They consistently underestimated actual rainfall patterns in certain geographical zones. This inaccurate prediction could have serious implications for water management and disaster preparedness. The miscompute in the model required extensive debugging and refinement, and the process took several months to address.