In Chinese culture, the concept of being meticulous and planning ahead is highly valued. In this positive sense, 计算 reflects prudence and intelligence, especially in business and finance. A good businessperson must be skilled at 计算 risks and benefits. However, there's a crucial cultural distinction when applying this term to personality. In Western cultures, describing someone as “calculating” can be neutral or even positive (e.g., “a calculated risk,” “a strategic thinker”). In China, describing a person as being too good at 计算 (太会计算了 - tài huì jìsuàn le) often carries a negative connotation. It implies they are selfishly scheming, stingy, or overly focused on personal gain at the expense of interpersonal relationships (关系, guānxi). This reflects a cultural preference for harmony and genuine connection over cold, transactional interactions. It suggests a person who counts every little favor and is not generous in spirit.
计算 is a versatile word used in many modern contexts.