skewed
This term describes a lack of balance or symmetry, whether physical, statistical, or conceptual. When applied to data or perspectives, it carries a strong connotation of inaccuracy or unfairness, suggesting that the result has been pulled away from the center or the truth by an external influence.
In a technical or statistical context, it refers specifically to the asymmetry of a probability distribution. Unlike "biased," which often implies a conscious prejudice or a systematic error in a process, "skewed" focuses on the resulting distortion of the final distribution or outcome.
Meanings
Distorted or biased in a way that is inaccurate, unfair, or not representative of the truth.
The results of the survey were skewed because only a small, non-representative group was interviewed.
Not straight or symmetrical; slanted, crooked, or turned to one side.
The picture on the wall was slightly skewed, making the room feel off-balance.
In statistics, describing a distribution where the data is concentrated on one side of the mean rather than being normally distributed.
The income distribution in the region is heavily skewed toward a few high-earners.