Impute Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impute

[ɪmˈpjuːt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

statistics

To attribute or ascribe a value, especially a value of a variable in a statistical analysis, to a missing data point.

Synonyms

ascribe, assign, attribute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impute

Used when you suggest someone is guilty or responsible for something, often with a sense of negativity or unjust blame.

  • The manager imputed the loss to the team's lack of effort; She imputed dishonesty to him without any solid evidence
attribute

Used when you identify something as belonging to a particular cause, person, or context, usually with a more formal and objective tone.

  • She attributed her success to hard work and perseverance; The quote is often attributed to Albert Einstein
ascribe

Used when you attribute a cause, reason, or characteristic to a person or thing, often in a more neutral or formal manner.

  • Scholars often ascribe this painting to Leonardo da Vinci; They ascribed the success of the project to their dedicated team
assign

Used when you are giving a particular job, duty, or task to someone or identifying the cause or origin of something, typically in a clear or direct manner.

  • The teacher assigned the homework to be done by Friday; The doctor assigned her fatigue to a lack of sleep

Examples of usage

  • The missing data points were imputed based on the average of the available data.
  • Imputing values can help maintain the integrity of the dataset.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'impute'

The word 'impute' has its origins in Latin, coming from the word 'imputare' meaning 'to charge, ascribe'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century, primarily used in the legal context to mean 'to attribute a crime, fault, or wrongdoing to someone'. Over time, its usage expanded to include attributing values in statistical analysis.


See also: imputation, imputing.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,596, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.