Definition

A way to describe how much a distribution of data is not symmetrical, showing whether it leans to one side or the other.

Example

The skewness of the data indicates that most values are clustered on the left side of the distribution.

Conversation

Have you heard about the concept of skewness in statistics?

Yeah, it’s all about how data can be asymmetrical, right?

Exactly! It helps us understand the shape of the distribution.

That makes sense. It’s interesting how it affects data interpretation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Skewness is derived from the word 'skew' (from Middle English 'scoo', meaning to turn aside or slant) combined with the suffix '-ness' (meaning the state or quality of). The term 'skewness' refers to the quality of being skewed or slanted, particularly in statistical distributions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'skew' as turning or slanting something, and '-ness' indicating a state. This helps you remember that 'skewness' describes the state of being slanted or uneven.

Visually Confused Words