LaTeX Approximately Equal () - Complete Guide

The approximately equal symbol (≈) indicates that two values are approximately equal.

Symbol Preview

Approximately Equal

LaTeX Code

No package required

Recommended
\approx

Approximately equal to

No package required

\simeq

Alternative: similar to

What is the LaTeX Approximately Equal?

The approximately equal symbol (≈) is used when values are close but not exactly equal, often in approximations and rounding.

How to Use Approximately Equal in LaTeX

Method 1: Using \approx

No package required

Approximately equal to

Example: Using \approx

latex
\documentclass{article}

\begin{document}

% Using the Approximately Equal
Text with \approx

\end{document}

Method 2: Using \simeq

No package required

Alternative: similar to

Example: Using \simeq

latex
\documentclass{article}

\begin{document}

% Using the Approximately Equal
Text with \simeq

\end{document}

Common Use Cases

The Approximately Equal symbol is commonly used in the following contexts:

Approximation

Values that are approximately equal.

Code

$\pi \approx 3.14159$

Output

π ≈ 3.14159

Complete Examples

Pi Approximation

Approximate value

latex
\documentclass{article}
\begin{document}

The value of pi: $\pi \approx 3.14159$

\end{document}

Frequently Asked Questions

Which method should I use?

We recommend using the method marked as "Recommended" above. However, the best method depends on your specific needs:

  • \approx: Approximately equal to
  • \simeq: Alternative: similar to

Where do I use this symbol?

This symbol can be used:

  • In mathematical equations (math mode)
  • In regular text (if using text mode)
  • In various document environments

Can I use this in display mode?

Yes, symbols that work in math mode (between $ $) also work in display mode (between $$ $$). This allows you to display the symbol on its own line with larger formatting.

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