skew
This term describes a deviation from a standard, whether that standard is a straight line or an unbiased truth. In a physical sense, it evokes a visual slant or a lack of alignment, suggesting something is crooked or off-center. In statistical or informational contexts, it refers to a systematic bias that pulls a result away from the center. This creates a skewed perspective where the outcome is no longer representative of the whole, often implying a flaw in methodology or a specific trend in the data.
Meanings
To distort or bias a result, piece of information, or perspective so that it is not accurate or representative.
"The small sample size tended to skew the survey results."
To set or place something at an angle or in a slanted position.
"He skewed the picture slightly to the left on the wall."
Not straight or symmetrical; slanted or crooked.
"The house had a skew roofline that gave it a modern appearance."
A distortion of data or a lack of symmetry in a statistical distribution.
"The data showed a significant positive skew toward higher income brackets."