Arithmetic unit for approximating function

A look-up table outputs an initial value, an inclination of a straight line and a correction value in response to an entry-of a high-order bit string of an operand. An offset circuit calculates an offset of the low-order bit string. A correction circuit outputs the initial value obtained by adding the correction value to at least one of the initial value and the inclination when the correction is necessary. A multiplier calculates a product of the inclination and the offset. An adder calculates the sum of the initial value and the product.