unconscious bias

American  

[uhn-kon-shuhs bahy-uhs] / ʌnˈkɒn ʃəs ˈbaɪ əs /

noun

1. implicit bias.

2. deep, general patterns and shortcuts of cognitive processing that a person is unaware of and that underlie implicit bias.

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Etymology

Origin of unconscious bias

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

Actress Mali Ann Rees said inclusivity was key to encouraging more people to speak Welsh, with "no excuse" for unconscious bias.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

I also have questions for you about conscious or unconscious bias: What actual evidence do you have that this woman is trying to seduce your father?

From MarketWatch • Dec. 1, 2025

“Judge Monguia expressed regret and remorse for his actions, and said that he had taken steps to address unconscious bias and other matters that contributed to his misconduct.”

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 5, 2025

"That is the power of unconscious bias," said Bohnet, who co-wrote a book called "Make Work Fair" about redesigning the workplace using data.

From Salon • Jan. 30, 2025

This is quite clearly the kind of unconscious bias that the IAT picks up on.

From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell