Bias

Definition

Bias refers to a tendency or inclination that favors one perspective, group, or outcome over another, often in an unfair or prejudiced way. It can also refer to a preference or predisposition that affects objectivity. As a noun, it describes the prejudice or slant itself; as a verb, it means to influence someone or something in a particular direction.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American and British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbaɪəs/
• Respelling: BY-uhs

The pronunciation of "bias" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "bias" originates from the Old French "biais," meaning "slant" or "oblique." It entered English in the 16th century, initially used to describe an inclination or slant in sports and gaming, particularly in the game of bowls. Its meaning evolved over time to include predispositions and partiality in various contexts.

Derivatives

• Biased (adjective)
• Unbiased (adjective)
• Biasing (verb)
• Biasness (noun)
• Overbias (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Prejudice
• Favoritism
• Slant

Antonyms

• Impartiality
• Objectivity
• Neutrality

Usage

The term "bias" is frequently used in contexts involving media, research, social issues, and individual decision-making. Biases can be conscious or unconscious and often influence judgments, actions, and opinions. In statistics and research, "bias" refers to a systematic error that skews results. In textile arts, bias describes the diagonal direction of fabric, known as the "bias cut."

Related Terms

• Prejudice: An unfair judgment or opinion formed without knowledge or reason.
• Stereotype: An oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing.
• Objectivity: The quality of being impartial or unbiased.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A tendency or inclination that favors one side over another: Refers to partiality or predisposition that may affect impartial judgment.
  • Example: "The report showed a clear bias towards certain policies."
• An error that skews statistical results: In research and statistics, it denotes a systematic deviation that affects accuracy.
  • Example: "Sampling bias can distort study findings."
• The diagonal direction of a fabric: In textiles, it describes the diagonal orientation of fabric, often used in garment-making.
  • Example: "The dress was cut on the bias for a better fit."

Verb

• To influence in a particular direction: Refers to causing someone to have a particular inclination or prejudice.
  • Example: "Her experiences biased her view on the topic."