probable error

American  

noun

Statistics.

1. a quantity formerly used as a measure of variability: equal to 0.6745 times the standard deviation. A normally distributed population has half of its elements within one probable error of the mean.

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probable error Scientific  

/ prŏb′ə-bəl /

1. The amount by which the arithmetic mean of a sample is expected to vary because of chance alone.

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Etymology

Origin of probable error

First recorded in 1805–15

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

probable error

In explanation of Warton's probable error two extenuating facts should be remembered.

From A History of English Poetry: an Unpublished Continuation by Thomas Warton

The probable error of a declination from a single transit was ±0″.141, and judging from the accidental errors, the series ought to give trustworthy results.

From Astronomical Discovery by Herbert Hall Turner

The time-lapse due to distance had a presumed correction and there was a considerable probable error in the speed of translation of the ship during overdrive.

From Talents, Incorporated by Murray Leinster

Trigonometrical Surveys in India, to be in probable error to the following extent:   Present SurveyValue of Height Most probableValue.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 13, Slice 4 "Hero" to "Hindu Chronology" by Various

With the small number of cases involved the probable error is too great to allow either of these measures as indicative of relationship.

From Adenoids and Diseased Tonsils Their Effect on General Intelligence by Margaret Cobb Rogers

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