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Alpha: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ”บ
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alpha

 

[ หˆรฆlfษ™ ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

science terminology

In the context of science, 'alpha' refers to the first letter of the Greek alphabet, which is commonly used to denote the first or primary position in a series. It is often used in various fields such as physics, finance, and social sciences to indicate a leading or dominant factor. For example, in finance, 'alpha' can refer to the excess return on an investment relative to the return of a benchmark index. Additionally, in statistics, 'alpha' represents the level of significance, often set at 0.05 or 0.01 in hypothesis testing.

Synonyms

beginning, first, primary

Examples of usage

  • The alpha version of the software shows promising features.
  • In finance, finding an investment with high alpha can lead to greater returns.
  • The scientist presented an alpha particle experiment.
Context #2 | Adjective

ranking or status

When used as an adjective, 'alpha' often describes a dominant or leading individual in a group, particularly in social hierarchies or animal behavior. The term is frequently applied to describe individuals in competitive environments who exhibit leadership qualities, confidence, and assertiveness. In social dynamics, 'alpha' individuals are often seen as leaders or influencers among their peers.

Synonyms

chief, dominant, leading

Examples of usage

  • He has always been considered the alpha dog of the group.
  • She displays alpha characteristics in her leadership style.
  • They often compete for the alpha position in the team.

Translations

Translations of the word "alpha" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น alfa

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค…เคฒเฅเคซเคพ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Alpha

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ alpha

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฐะปัŒั„ะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ alfa

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใ‚ขใƒซใƒ•ใ‚ก

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท alpha

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ alfa

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท alfa

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์•ŒํŒŒ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุฃู„ูุง

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ alfu

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ alfu

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ้˜ฟๅฐ”ๆณ•

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ alfa

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ alfa

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะฐะปัŒั„ะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒแƒšแƒคแƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ alfa

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ alfa

Etymology

The term 'alpha' originates from the Greek letter 'ฮฑ', which is the first letter of the Greek alphabet. The alphabet itself was developed in the 8th century BC and has been used in various regions since its inception. The significance of 'alpha' as a symbol of primacy or leadership began in ancient Greece and has been carried through various fields of study over the centuries. In mathematics, science, and finance, 'alpha' is often associated with leading variables or key factors that define a situation. In contemporary times, the term has evolved further into popular culture, where 'alpha' is used to describe individuals who exhibit dominant traits. Its usage spans literature, behavioral sciences, and investment analysis, reflecting its multifaceted applications across disciplines.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,055 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.