random error

American  

noun

Statistics.

1. an error that has a random distribution and can be attributed to chance.

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Etymology

Origin of random error

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Although that was most likely just a random error - unsurprising perhaps, given the volume of interest.

From BBC

But it was not a random error, either.

From New York Times

Researchers have shown that when the coronavirus replicates, around 3% of new virus copies have a new, random error, otherwise known as a mutation.

From Salon

He concluded the data were “produced artificially … without pouring enough random error over it to make it appear more natural.”

From Science Magazine

In 2006, Tom Tango, an alias used by the senior database architect of stats for MLB Advanced Media, explained how True Score Theory, which assumes that any observed result is the sum of an underlying “true” skill and a random error component, can be used to decipher how many games you need to play in various sports leagues to witness the truly better team have the better record.

From Washington Post