Definition

A sophisticated guess dressed up in professional language, typically provided by contractors who will later explain why the actual cost is double. In business, it's that document specifying what a job 'should' cost before reality, scope creep, and unforeseen complications enter the chat. The more detailed the estimate, the more creative the eventual excuses.

Example Usage

The contractor's estimate said $5,000 for the bathroom remodel, but after discovering 'unexpected water damage,' the final bill was $12,000.

Source: Business and construction terminology

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