bias - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
bias Word Meanings
- a tendency to favor one thing over another
- a personal and sometimes unreasoned judgment
- to influence unfairly.
bias Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
bias Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbaɪəs/
US
/ˈbaɪəs/
bias Word Etymology
bias = bi- (two) + as (object) → Old French 'biais' → Middle English 'bias'. Imagine seeing a set of scales tipping unevenly with one side weighed down, symbolizing how bias can distort fairness.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I move my attention like a knob I turn, watching thoughts slide toward one option. I settle on that path and hold back other ideas, letting the choice pull focus forward. The effort feels small but real, a push and pull between options, and I adjust as new clues come in. That tipping moment—bias in action—shapes what I notice next.
Real Context
Bias is a tendency to favor one thing over another, and it can shape how we think, judge, and act, sometimes without our awareness. In everyday speech, bias often refers to personal preferences that tilt decisions, while in statistics it means a systematic error that distorts results. People can display bias in evaluating people, reports, or choices, and institutions may have bias in policy or procedures. Distinguishing bias from prejudice or stereotype helps learners use the word accurately. As a verb, bias means to influence unfairly, such as an editor biasing coverage; as a noun, it can describe the inclination itself.
Usage Reminders
- Bias can be a noun or a verb; avoid confusing bias with prejudice or stereotype; bias toward or bias against is common; statistical bias is a systematic error; biased vs unbiased is a common contrast; use unbiased language when describing conclusions.
Common Misconceptions
- Bias equals prejudice or racism
- Bias only appears in people, not systems
- Bias is always intentional
- Statistical bias is the same as an error in sampling
- You can remove bias completely from analysis
Thinking Differences
In English, bias is often discussed as a cognitive tilt or a measurable error, with clear distinctions from prejudice or discrimination. Learners may mix up biased judgment with outright hostility, or confuse bias in statistics with personal prejudice.
Learning Tips
- Use common collocations like bias toward/against
- Differentiate bias from prejudice and stereotype
- Practice with statistical contexts
- Notice when a source is described as biased
- Read and listen for subtle cues indicating bias
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'bias' mean?
A.Motion
B.Preference
C.Diet
D.Fury
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'bias' used correctly?
A.They bias to the park for a picnic.
B.He washed the car with a bias.
C.The bias of the tennis ball changed its direction.
D.She has a strong bias for chocolate ice cream.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'bias'?
A.Prejudice
B.Objective
C.Impartiality
D.Fairness
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'bias'?
A.Partiality
B.Impartiality
C.Preference
D.Neutral
Step 5: Mastery
How can bias affect decision-making in a workplace?
A.It encourages unbiased hiring practices.
B.It promotes equality and diversity.
C.Bias has no impact on decision-making.
D.It can lead to unfair treatment of certain employees.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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