correlation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
correlation Word Meanings
- the relationship or connection between two or more things
- the degree to which two variables move in relation to each other
correlation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
- There is a strong correlation between study time and good grades.
- The weather shows a correlation with people’s moods.
- Scientists found a correlation between sugar intake and health issues.
- There is a positive correlation between exercise and happiness.
- The data shows a clear correlation between age and life experience.
correlation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌkɒrəˈleɪʃən/
US
/ˌkɔːrəˈleɪʃən/
correlation Word Etymology
cor- = together + relation = relating; From Latin 'correlatio' through Old French to English. Imagine two dancers moving in sync, representing how different elements correlate with each other.
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 place my feet, press start, and lift the bar, feeling the weight yield to my push. As I pull and settle, my pace and breath shift together, like two gears clicking in rhythm. The effort keeps my hands steady, and the sense of correlation between actions and outcome grows with control. In everyday use, that feeling guides my choices—when to push a little more and when to ease off—to keep two things in line.
Real Context
Correlation is the idea that two things move together in a pattern: when one changes, the other tends to change in a predictable way. It measures the strength and direction of this relationship, often with a value between -1 and 1. A high absolute value indicates a strong relationship; values near zero indicate little or no linear association. Remember that correlation does not imply causation: two variables can be related through a third factor or by chance. Cautions include outliers, small samples, and spurious patterns. In data analysis, distinguishing correlation from causation is essential for valid conclusions.
Usage Reminders
- Remember that correlation does not equal causation.
- Watch for outliers that distort the relationship.
- Consider the data size; small samples can falsely inflate correlation.
- Distinguish linear correlation from nonlinear relationships.
- Check for confounding variables that could drive both variables.
Common Misconceptions
- Correlation equals causation
- A high correlation is always meaningful
- Correlation only measures linear relationships
- A near-zero correlation means no relationship exists
- Correlation proves one variable causes the other
Thinking Differences
Think of correlation as a measure of how two things move together, not why they move. English tends to use 'correlation' across both everyday talk and technical writing, so learners often conflate it with causation.
Learning Tips
- Practice using 'correlation' with statistics and everyday language
- Distinguish correlation from causation in examples
- Learn signs: positive vs negative correlation
- Look for nonlinear relationships beyond linear correlation
- Use scatter plots to visualize data relationships
- Check sample size and data quality before interpreting
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'correlation'?
A.A connection between two or more things
B.A mathematical equation
C.A type of flower
D.A type of bird
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'correlation' used correctly?
A.There is a strong correlation between exercise and health.
B.She bought a correlation of red and blue paint.
C.He saw a correlation singing in the trees.
D.The correlation flew over the mountains.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'correlation'?
A.Difference
B.Relationship
C.Conflict
D.Isolation
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'correlation'?
A.Similarity
B.Connection
C.Discrepancy
D.Association
Step 5: Mastery
How would you explain 'correlation' in the context of analyzing data in a scientific study?
A.A random guess
B.A type of weather pattern
C.A type of error in calculations
D.A meaningful relationship between variables
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