distort results

USAGE SUMMARY

'distort results' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to the alteration of data or information that may lead to inaccurate or incorrect results. For example: "Due to the faulty machinery, the data collected was distorted, and the results were unreliable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

But Professor Alt also acknowledges that the artificial environment of the laboratory can distort results.

The New York Times - Arts

According to the researchers, there are two other major problems that can distort results in a study like this.

The New York Times - Health

That's up from 50-43 six weeks ago, but SurveyUSA uses automated questionnaires, which may distort results.

The New York Times

Meat accounts for less than 10% of a burger's total cost, so this is unlikely to distort results hugely.

The Economist

The Times doesn't generally report on PPP surveys, since that company uses automated questionnaires, which we think may distort results.

The New York Times

"The problem with radiocarbon dates of this antiquity is that it only takes a tiny trace of contamination from modern organic material to distort results," said Higham.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"It distorts results on education, employment, religion and other variables related to gender and age".

The New York Times

He shows the grainy, oddly distorted results, which he calls recordings, as DVD installations in art galleries.

The New York Times

A combination of parent contracts, exclusion and self-selection ensure that the most disadvantaged students remain outside the charters and in the neighbouring public system, further distorting results.

The Guardian

The review has been prompted by increasing concern that some sites have been distorting results to favour the power companies paying the most commission.

The Guardian - Money

"The grade boundary debacle has distorted results this year, but despite this there have been many positive gains at all levels.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potential issues in research or data analysis, use "distort results" to highlight specific factors that may lead to inaccurate or misleading conclusions. Be precise in identifying these factors to ensure clarity and strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "distort results" when the effect is minor or negligible. Overstating the impact can weaken your credibility. Instead, use more nuanced language like "slightly affect" or "potentially influence" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distort results" functions as a verb phrase where "distort" acts as a transitive verb, taking "results" as its direct object. This indicates an action performed on the results, altering their true representation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

33%

Science & Research

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "distort results" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as verified by Ludwig AI, to convey that findings have been altered or misrepresented in some way. With its common usage across scientific, news, and academic domains, it serves to highlight factors that may compromise the accuracy and reliability of data. Related phrases such as "skew results" or "bias results" can provide more nuanced meanings depending on the specific context. When using "distort results", it's important to be precise in identifying the causes of the distortion to maintain clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

skew results

This alternative implies a bias or lack of neutrality in the presentation or interpretation of the findings.

bias results

This phrase emphasizes the introduction of prejudice or favoritism into the outcome.

affect outcomes

This suggests a broader influence, not necessarily negative, on the final results.

influence findings

Similar to "affect outcomes", but focuses on the findings specifically.

taint conclusions

This implies that the results have been contaminated or corrupted, leading to unreliable conclusions.

compromise data

This indicates that the integrity or security of the data has been breached, potentially affecting its accuracy.

invalidate data

This means the data is no longer reliable or usable for drawing conclusions.

undermine validity

This emphasizes that the reliability of the results is being challenged or weakened.

misrepresent findings

This highlights a deliberate or unintentional presentation of the results in a misleading way.

falsify outcomes

This implies a deliberate act of altering or fabricating the results.

FAQs

What does it mean to "distort results"?

To "distort results" means to change or affect data or findings in a way that makes them inaccurate, misleading, or not representative of the true situation. It suggests that something has influenced the data, leading to a false conclusion.

How can research results be distorted?

Research results can be distorted through various means, including biased sampling, flawed methodology, data manipulation, or selective reporting. These issues can introduce errors or skew the findings, leading to incorrect interpretations.

What are some alternatives to saying "distort results"?

You can use alternatives like "skew results", "bias results", or "affect outcomes" depending on the specific context and the degree of influence on the data.

How do I prevent my research from distorting the results?

To prevent your research from distorting the results, use rigorous methodologies, ensure unbiased sampling, implement quality control measures, and transparently report all findings, including any limitations. This helps maintain the integrity and reliability of your data.