Unobserved Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unobserved
[ˌʌnəbˈzərvd ]
Definition
in statistics
Not seen or recorded during an experiment or study, usually due to limitations in data collection or measurement techniques. Unobserved data can lead to bias in analysis and interpretation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unobserved |
Used when someone or something is not noticed or seen by others. Often implies a natural or unintentional lack of attention.
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| hidden |
Used when someone or something is deliberately placed out of sight, often with the intention of not being found. Implies a purposeful action to stay out of view.
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| undetected |
Used when someone or something has not been noticed or discovered, often in contexts implying the successful avoidance of being found. Commonly used in technical or security contexts.
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| unseen |
Used when something is not visible to the observer, either because it is out of view, obscured, or not looked at. More general and less intentional than 'hidden'.
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Examples of usage
- The unobserved variables in the study could have a significant impact on the results.
- Researchers must account for any unobserved factors that may influence the outcome.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychology, behaviors performed when individuals believe they are unobserved can show a person's true character.
- Research indicates people often act differently when they think they are being watched versus when they are not.
- The phenomenon where people feel free to express themselves more authentically when alone relates directly to being unobserved.
Literature
- Many authors use the concept of unobserved actions to develop mysterious characters in novels.
- In plays and stories, characters often reveal secrets only when they believe they are alone, a common plot device.
- The contrast between observed and unobserved behavior can create tension and intrigue in narrative storytelling.
Science
- In scientific experiments, certain observations can only be made under controlled conditions where outside influences are unobserved.
- The concept of particles existing in a state until they are measured highlights how observation affects phenomena.
- In ecology, animal behaviors may be drastically different when they are unobserved by researchers, affecting study outcomes.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows often feature scenes where characters go unnoticed, leading to plots driven by surprise or hidden agendas.
- The 'invisibility' trope, where characters act without being seen, is popular in fantasy genres, illustrating the power of being unobserved.
- Reality television sometimes captures moments when participants believe they are out of sight, revealing their unguarded selves.
Origin of 'unobserved'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'observed,' which means 'watched or noticed.'
- It has roots in Latin, from 'observare,' meaning 'to watch over.'
- The use of this term dates back to the late 17th century in English literature.
The word 'unobserved' originates from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the past participle of the verb 'observe'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 16th century.
See also: nonobservance, observable, observance, observant, observantly, observation, observational, observationally, observe, observer, observers, observing, unobservant.