Imputation: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in statistics and data analysis to describe the process of replacing missing data with substituted values.

• The researchers used imputation to handle the missing survey responses.
• Imputation techniques helped improve the dataset's completeness.

Often used in contexts where one thing is used in place of another, particularly in formal or technical settings like mathematics, sports, or programming.

• The player had to leave the match, so the coach made a substitution.
• Chemical substitution in the formula resulted in a new compound.

General term used to describe something that is used as a substitute for another thing, applicable in various contexts from everyday language to technical fields.

• We need a replacement for the broken window.
• They ordered a replacement part for the engine.

Commonly used in everyday contexts to describe the action of completing something that is incomplete or empty, often in a straightforward manner.

• Can you help me with filling in this form?
• She spent the afternoon filling in the blanks in her application.

Used in formal or legal contexts to refer to an accusation or assignment of blame that is often serious and potentially damaging.

• The imputation of fraud damaged his professional reputation.
• She denied the imputation that she had been dishonest in her dealings.

Commonly used in academic, journalistic, and analytical settings to refer to the act of identifying the source or cause of something, such as a statement, work, or phenomenon.

• Proper attribution in academic writing is crucial to avoiding plagiarism.
• The scientist's research focused on the attribution of climate change to human activities.

Used in academic or analytical contexts to refer to the act of attributing a certain quality or characteristic to someone or something. It is often neutral in tone.

• The ascription of genius to the young artist was met with mixed reactions.
• In her essay, she discusses the ascription of certain roles to women in literature.

Used when referring to an accusation that has not yet been proven or confirmed, commonly seen in legal or journalistic contexts.

• The politician faced several allegations of corruption.
• Despite the allegations, there was no concrete evidence to support the claims.