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Statistics

stuh-TIS-tiks /stəˈtɪstɪks/

nounC1GRESATIELTSTOEFL

formalacademic

The practice or science of collecting and analyzing numerical data in large quantities, especially for the purpose of inferring proportions in a whole from those in a representative sample.

Statistics focuses on data, variability, and making inferences about populations based on samples. It's often used to understand trends, make predictions, and test hypotheses.

The story behind the word. The word 'statistics' has a fascinating connection to the state! It comes from the New Latin 'statisticus,' meaning 'of state affairs,' which itself derived from the Italian 'statista,' meaning 'statesman' or 'one skilled in statecraft.' In the 18th century, it referred to the collection and classification of facts about a state or nation, like population, economy, and resources. Over time, its meaning broadened to encompass the general science of data analysis.

Word relationships

data analysis: Data analysis is a process within statistics, but 'statistics' refers to the broader field and methods.
numerology: Numerology is a pseudoscientific belief system, completely distinct from the rigorous scientific field of statistics.

Commonly confused with

Mathematics: Statistics is a branch of mathematics that deals with data, while mathematics is the broader discipline of abstract reasoning and quantity.

Word family

statistician (noun): A person who specializes in statistics.
statistical (adjective): Relating to statistics; based on data.

Collocations

descriptive statistics
inferential statistics
economic statistics
official statistics

Example sentences

"Medical researchers use statistics to determine the effectiveness of new drugs and treatments." Explaining its purpose in research.
"Her degree in statistics prepared her for a career in data analysis and market research." Referring to the field of study.
"Government agencies rely on statistics to understand demographic shifts and plan public services." Discussing its application in policy.

Memory hook

Think of 'STATE-istics' as the science of collecting data about the 'state' of things. STATE-data

When not to use

Don't use 'statistics' when you mean 'mathematics' in general; statistics is a specific branch. Also, avoid using it to refer to a single numerical fact (e.g., 'that's a statistic' is fine, but 'statistics show' implies a body of data, not just one number).

Fun facts

The first known use of the word 'statistics' in English was in 1770 by Sir John Sinclair.
Florence Nightingale was a pioneering statistician who used data visualization to advocate for hospital reform.

Explore more words

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