statistical

Everyday

1. Statistical means about statistics: the collecting, counting and studying of numbers and data to find patterns and facts. tree →
2. Statistical describes something shown by numbers rather than by single stories: a statistical link, statistical evidence. tree →

In the lessons

In maths lessons it appears with tables, charts, averages (mean, median, mode) and surveys; in science with results of experiments; in the news with reports about health, weather and money. It tells the reader a claim rests on data. Phrases: "statistical evidence", "statistical analysis", "statistical chart", "statistical survey".

Examples

• We did a statistical survey of favourite fruits in our class. tree →
• The report gives statistical evidence that the river is cleaner. tree →
• A statistical chart showed how many children walk to school. tree →
• Scientists used statistical tests to check their results. tree →
• There is a statistical link between sleep and good marks. tree →
• The statistical summary showed the mean height was 135 cm. tree →
• Is the difference real or just a statistical accident? tree →

Note

No comparative forms. Related: statistics (noun), statistically (adverb), statistician (person). A statistical link (correlation) does not prove that one thing causes the other.