random error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "random error" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in statistical or scientific contexts to refer to variability in measurements that cannot be attributed to any specific cause. Example: "The results of the experiment showed a significant random error, indicating that the measurements were not consistent."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This reduces the risk of random error.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Giraffes, " a film about random error effecting the lives of tree young women and men.

The New York Times

It was a random error in cell division, the pediatric specialist said.

The Washington Post

The E component represents random error and must be retained in all models40.

Nature

The relative height error is estimated as random error together with the final elevation difference measurements.

Nature

It is not just a matter of noise or random error.

Harvard Business Review

Random error standard deviations favored the custom device.

Medical Dosimetry

Some results on independent random error settings are extended.

Journal of Statistical Planning and Inference

Making things worse, many who are consistently top-ranked will be misclassified as such, due to random error.

The Washington Post

This contrasted with earlier models wherein the random error was assumed to be constant over time.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Allan variance analysis technique has a good performance in analyzing inertial sensor random error, and it is always used to characterize various types of the random error terms.

Advances in Space Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing experimental results, quantify the magnitude of the "random error" using appropriate statistical measures, such as standard deviation or confidence intervals, to provide a clear understanding of the data's reliability.

Common error

Avoid attributing consistent deviations or patterns in data solely to "random error". Investigate potential sources of systematic bias, such as calibration issues or consistent measurement errors, before concluding that the observed variability is purely random.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "random error" functions as a noun phrase or term of art, primarily used in statistics, science, and engineering. It describes unpredictable variations in measurements that do not exhibit a consistent pattern.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

26%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "random error" is a common and grammatically correct term, primarily used in scientific and statistical contexts to describe unpredictable variations in measurements. Ludwig indicates its prevalence across diverse sources, including science, news media, and encyclopedias. To enhance clarity in your writing, quantify "random error" with statistical measures and distinguish it from systematic bias. Synonyms like "statistical noise" or "measurement uncertainty" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chance error

This alternative emphasizes the role of chance or probability in the error's occurrence.

statistical noise

This phrase highlights the error as unwanted variation within statistical data.

measurement uncertainty

This focuses on the inherent uncertainty associated with the measurement process.

stochastic deviation

This term uses 'stochastic' to indicate randomness and 'deviation' to mean departure from an expected value.

unexplained variation

This highlights the lack of a clear cause for the observed variation or error.

unsystematic error

This term specifies that the error doesn't follow a discernible pattern or system.

irregularity

This is a general term for something that deviates from what is standard or expected.

sporadic mistake

This emphasizes that the error occurs occasionally and without a regular pattern.

aleatory error

This term uses 'aleatory' to denote dependence on chance or luck.

fluctuation

This refers to irregular variations or changes, suggesting a lack of stability.

FAQs

How does "random error" affect research?

"Random error" introduces variability in measurements, potentially obscuring true effects. Researchers mitigate this by increasing sample sizes and using statistical methods to account for variability.

What's the difference between "random error" and "systematic error"?

"Random error" is unpredictable and varies in magnitude and direction. "Systematic error" is consistent and biased in one direction, affecting all measurements similarly.

How can I reduce "random error" in experiments?

To reduce "random error", improve measurement precision through calibrated instruments, standardized procedures, and repeated trials. Averaging multiple measurements helps minimize the impact of "random error".

What are some synonyms for "random error"?

Alternatives for "random error" include "statistical noise", "measurement uncertainty", and "chance error", depending on the specific context.