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Inaccuracy: meaning, definitions and examples

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inaccuracy

 

[ɪnˈækjərəsi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

data

The quality or state of being inaccurate; lack of accuracy.

Synonyms

error, incorrectness, mistake.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inaccuracy

Use 'inaccuracy' when referring to something that is not precise or exact, especially in technical or scientific contexts.

  • The inaccuracy of the data led to incorrect conclusions
  • The GPS device has a margin of inaccuracy of about 5 meters
error

Use 'error' when referring to an unintended deviation from correctness or accuracy, commonly in formal or technical settings.

  • The computer program crashed due to an unexpected error
  • Human error was identified as the main cause of the accident
mistake

Use 'mistake' when referring to a wrong action or decision, often used in everyday conversation and carrying a lighter connotation.

  • I made a mistake in my calculation
  • It was a mistake to trust him with the secret
incorrectness

Use 'incorrectness' when describing something that is wrong or not correct, often in a more formal or intellectual context.

  • The incorrectness of the argument was apparent upon closer inspection
  • The essay was marked down due to the incorrectness of some facts

Examples of usage

  • Inaccuracies in the report led to misunderstandings.
  • The inaccuracy of the measurements was due to outdated equipment.
Context #2 | Noun

information

A mistake or error in information or data.

Synonyms

imprecision, inexactitude, unreliability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inaccuracy

Inaccuracy is suitable when discussing errors or mistakes in details, data, or measurements. It often conveys that the information is wrong or not true.

  • The reporter's inaccuracy in the article led to widespread misinformation.
  • Due to inaccuracy in the GPS system, the hikers lost their way.
inexactitude

Inexactitude is used to describe something that is not precisely accurate and is often employed in more formal or technical contexts. It points out the deviation from exactness.

  • The inexactitude of the calculations was problematic for the engineering project.
  • Historians were concerned with the inexactitude in the dates provided.
imprecision

Imprecision is appropriate when referring to lack of exactness or clarity, especially in language, instruments, or expressions. It focuses more on the vagueness rather than correctness.

  • The imprecision of his instructions made it difficult for his team to complete the task.
  • The imprecision of the tool measurement can lead to inconsistent results.
unreliability

Unreliability is best used when discussing trustworthiness or dependability, particularly when something or someone cannot be counted on to perform accurately or consistently.

  • The unreliability of the old car made it impossible to plan long trips.
  • His unreliability as a witness weakened the case.

Examples of usage

  • The inaccuracy of the data resulted in wrong conclusions.
  • We need to address the inaccuracies in the database.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin, where 'in-' means 'not' and 'accuratus' means 'done with care'.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, highlighting a lack of precision.
  • The prefix 'in-' changes the meaning of the root word, indicating a negation or opposite.

Science

  • Inaccuracies in measurements can lead to incorrect conclusions, impacting fields from healthcare to engineering.
  • Experimental errors can stem from various sources, including equipment malfunctions or human mistakes.
  • Statistical analysis often identifies and quantifies inaccuracies, helping to boost the reliability of results.

Psychology

  • People may perceive information as accurate if it aligns with their beliefs, even if it is objectively wrong.
  • Cognitive biases, like confirmation bias, can contribute to the acceptance of inaccurate information.
  • Misinformation can spread quickly, affecting collective thinking and decision-making.

Literature

  • Inaccurate details in historical novels can lead to misconceptions about real events and figures.
  • Fictional works sometimes use inaccuracy to create plot twists or character developments.
  • Authors often include disclaimers to remind readers of creative liberties that may lead to inaccuracies.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies adapt historical events but contain inaccuracies for dramatic effect.
  • Social media is often a source of inaccuracy; viral posts may misrepresent facts or data.
  • Comedic shows sometimes exaggerate inaccuracies for humor, which can also misinform audiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "inaccuracy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imprecisão

🇮🇳 अशुद्धता

🇩🇪 Ungenauigkeit

🇮🇩 ketidakakuratan

🇺🇦 неточність

🇵🇱 niedokładność

🇯🇵 不正確さ

🇫🇷 inexactitude

🇪🇸 inexactitud

🇹🇷 yanlışlık

🇰🇷 부정확성

🇸🇦 عدم دقة

🇨🇿 nepřesnost

🇸🇰 nepresnosť

🇨🇳 不准确

🇸🇮 netočnost

🇮🇸 ónákvæmni

🇰🇿 дәлсіздік

🇬🇪 არაზუსტობა

🇦🇿 dəqiqlik

🇲🇽 inexactitud

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,408, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.