systematic error

USAGE SUMMARY

"systematic error" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when referring to mistakes or flaws in a process or system that consistently produce the same incorrect result. Example: "Despite their best efforts, the researchers were unable to eliminate the systematic error in their data collection method, leading to skewed results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Another systematic error involves "duration neglect" and the "peak-end rule".

The Guardian - Books

His provocative book identifies four areas of "systematic error" by voters, all related to economics.

The New York Times - Books

Non-random, or systematic error, pushes your results in only one direction.

The Economist

No systematic error was observed.

EJNMMI Physics

This leads to a systematic error in the stress calculation.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

No systematic error in 2T4k fits was observed (p = 0.06).

EJNMMI Research

The mean bias indicates whether there is a systematic error.

Annals of Intensive Care

There was no systematic error associated with the methodology used.

Progress in Orthodontics

The systematic error is estimated in more detail below.

Earth, Planets and Space

Figure 3b illustrates a systematic error due to regular gradients.

Earth, Planets and Space

This led to a systematic error in P-wave velocity.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing research or analysis, clearly define the source and nature of any "systematic error" to ensure transparency and facilitate reproducibility. Provide specific examples if possible.

Common error

Do not mistake "systematic error" for random error. "Systematic error" is consistent and repeatable, while random error is unpredictable and varies in magnitude and direction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "systematic error" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, it's used to describe flaws in a system that consistently produce incorrect results. Examples provided by Ludwig illustrate its use across various scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

18%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "systematic error" is a common term, especially in scientific and technical fields, used to describe a consistent and repeatable inaccuracy in a process or system. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. Analysis of examples reveals that it is most frequently used within scientific contexts, with less frequent appearances in news and media and formal business settings. When using the phrase, it's crucial to differentiate it from random error and to clearly define its source to ensure transparency in research and analysis. Related phrases include "consistent bias" and "methodological flaw", which offer alternative ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

consistent bias

Focuses on the directional skew in the errors, highlighting the consistent nature of the deviation.

methodological flaw

Emphasizes the problem originates from the methodology or the procedure used.

predictable inaccuracy

Highlights the predictability aspect, suggesting the error can be anticipated.

recurring mistake

Points out the repetitive nature of the error, indicating it happens more than once.

structural defect

Indicates the error is inherent to the structure or design of the system or process.

inherent fault

Suggests the error is part of the fundamental nature of something.

built-in bias

Emphasizes that the bias is integrated within the system itself.

constant deviation

Highlights the unchanging nature of the error's departure from the true value.

fixed error

Suggests the error is stable and does not change over time.

routine inaccuracy

Indicates the error is a normal or expected part of the process.

FAQs

How does "systematic error" affect research outcomes?

A "systematic error" can consistently skew results in a particular direction, leading to inaccurate conclusions and potentially invalidating research findings. It's crucial to identify and mitigate these errors to ensure reliable outcomes.

What are some strategies to minimize "systematic error"?

Strategies include calibrating instruments regularly, standardizing protocols, using control groups, and employing blind or double-blind study designs. Also, consider error propagation analysis.

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

"Systematic error" is a consistent and repeatable error in measurement, whereas "random error" is unpredictable and varies in magnitude and direction. "Systematic errors" can be corrected with careful calibration or standardization, whereas random errors require statistical methods to estimate their impact.

How to identify "systematic error" in data?

Identifying "systematic error" involves comparing measurements to known standards, examining patterns in residuals, and assessing the consistency of results across different conditions or instruments. A Bland-Altman plot can also be helpful.