positive correlation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "positive correlation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a relationship between two or more variables where one increases and the other increases at the same time. For example, you might say, "There is a positive correlation between the amount of time spent studying and good grades in school."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Red: positive correlation, blue: negative correlation.

Nature

A significant, positive correlation was found.

Nature

Blue boxes indicate positive correlation; red boxes indicate negative correlation.

Nature

(A recent study found a positive correlation between chili-eating and "sensation-seeking" behavior).

The New Yorker

Researchers found that binge-watching had a positive correlation with poor mental and physical wellbeing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But there are plenty of areas where social and financial returns have a positive correlation".

The Guardian

Participants' age exhibited a high positive correlation with average pre-stimulus entropy (r = 0.73, p = 0.0004).

Nature

The secretion concentrations of both leptin and APN showed positive correlation with mRNA expression levels.

Nature

In fact, we found a significant positive correlation between scientific rigour and capacity strengthening.

Nature

Consistently, the number of SSR markers showed a positive correlation with the genome size.

Nature

These results suggest a positive correlation between genetic diversity and geographic distance.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "positive correlation", specify the variables involved to provide context and clarity. For example, instead of saying "there is a positive correlation", say "there is a positive correlation between X and Y".

Common error

A common mistake is assuming that a "positive correlation" implies causation. Just because two variables move together does not mean that one causes the other. Be careful to avoid this logical fallacy in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "positive correlation" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in academic research, news reporting, and business contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "positive correlation" is a common and widely applicable term used to describe the relationship between two variables that tend to move in the same direction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in scientific research, news reporting, and business analysis. It's important to remember that while "positive correlation" indicates a relationship, it doesn't establish causation. To enhance clarity, always specify the variables involved when discussing "positive correlation". Common errors include assuming causation and failing to provide sufficient context. Related phrases like "positive relationship" and "direct correlation" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong positive correlation

Emphasizes the strength of the correlation.

significant positive correlation

Highlights the statistical importance of the correlation.

direct correlation

Emphasizes the straightforward nature of the correlation.

positive association

A broader term for a positive link or relationship.

favorable correlation

Indicates that correlation is advantageous or beneficial.

positive relationship

Indicates a general association, less specific than correlation.

positive link

Describes a simple association between two things.

direct link

Highlights a causal or influential connection.

positive interdependence

Emphasizes the mutual reliance in the positive correlation.

positive interplay

Highlights a reciprocal exchange in the positive correlation.

FAQs

What does "positive correlation" mean?

A "positive correlation" indicates a relationship where two variables increase or decrease together. As one variable increases, the other tends to increase, and vice versa.

How do I use "positive correlation" in a sentence?

You can use "positive correlation" to describe the relationship between two variables. For example: "There is a "strong positive correlation" between exercise and cardiovascular health".

What's the difference between "positive correlation" and causation?

"Positive correlation" only indicates a relationship where variables move together, while causation implies that one variable directly causes a change in the other. Correlation does not prove causation.

Are there alternative phrases for "positive correlation"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "positive relationship", "direct correlation", or "positive association" depending on the context.