bias

Definition of bias

A tendency or inclination that prevents impartial judgment, often resulting in prejudice in favor of or against a person, group, or thing.

Origin of bias

Language of origin: Middle French

Root word: biais

Original meaning: slant, oblique line

How it evolved: Originally referring to a physical slope or diagonal, the term expanded to encompass figurative meanings of inclination or prejudice.

The word 'bias' originated from the Middle French term 'biais,' meaning 'slant' or 'oblique line,' and later evolved to signify an inclination or prejudice.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember bias

Imagine a tilted scale that's 'biased' toward one side; this imbalance reflects how bias skews judgment or fairness.

Synonyms for bias

• prejudice
• partiality
• favoritism
• preconception
• predisposition
• slant
• inclination
• preference

Antonyms of bias

• impartiality
• neutrality
• objectivity
• fairness
• even-handedness

bias in a Sentence

1. The researcher attempted to eliminate bias by using a double-blind study design, ensuring that neither participants nor experimenters influenced the results.
2. Her judgment was clouded by a subtle bias in favor of her childhood friends, which led to unfair decisions in the competition.
3. The editorial board was accused of bias after publishing articles that consistently favored one political party over the other.

bias in Literature & Culture

The term 'bias' is often explored in literature and political speeches, especially when addressing fairness, equality, and ethical dilemmas. It also plays a key role in discussions about media objectivity.

Usage Notes

Bias is often used in contexts involving decision-making and judgment. Be careful not to confuse it with 'unbiased,' which conveys the opposite meaning. Additionally, bias can refer to both conscious and unconscious inclinations.

Why bias Matters for GRE & SAT

Bias is a critical term for GRE test-takers to understand, as it frequently appears in reading comprehension passages discussing research methodologies, arguments, and societal issues.

Word Family

biased (adjective)

Having or showing prejudice.

unbiased (adjective)

Free from prejudice or favoritism.

biasing (verb)

To influence or affect unfairly.

Did You Know?

• In the sport of lawn bowling, 'bias' refers to the curved trajectory of the ball due to its weight distribution.
• The concept of unconscious bias has gained prominence in psychology and workplace training, addressing hidden preferences individuals may hold.
• The phrase 'confirmation bias' describes the tendency to favor information that supports one's preexisting beliefs.

Related Words

• inclination
• propensity
• banal — unoriginal and dull; lacking creativity
• banish — expel from a place, especially as punishment; get rid of
• baroque — overly detailed or ornamental
• barrage — an overwhelming concentration of something, typically hostile words
• barren — incapable of producing offspring or fruit; unproductive

More Vocabulary Words Starting with B

• banal — unoriginal and dull; lacking creativity
• banal — unoriginal and dull; lacking creativity
• banish — expel from a place, especially as punishment; get rid of
• banish — expel from a place, especially as punishment; get rid of
• baroque — overly detailed or ornamental
• baroque — overly detailed or ornamental
• barrage — an overwhelming concentration of something, typically hostile words
• barrage — an overwhelming concentration of something, typically hostile words
• barren — incapable of producing offspring or fruit; unproductive
• barren — incapable of producing offspring or fruit; unproductive