Vocabulary Spotlight
Bias
Part of Speech: Noun / Verb
Definition: A tendency, inclination, or prejudice for or against something or someone, often in a way that is considered to be unfair.
“The journalist was accused of showing bias in her reporting on the political campaign.”
Pronunciation
[bahy-uhs]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Partiality
Favoritism
Inclination
Slant
Antonyms
Neutrality
Fairness
Objectivity
Unprejudiced
Related Words
Stereotype
Lean
Word Origin
“Bias” has its roots in the French word “biais,” which means oblique or slanting. It originally referred to a line that was not straight or direct. By the 16th century, it had evolved to signify an inclination or tendency away from neutrality.
Word Family
Adjective: Biased – Showing a tendency or prejudice.
Noun: Bias – A prejudice in favor of or against something or someone.
Mnemonics
Remember “Bias” as “Be+I+As” — Be as I am, suggesting a personal inclination or preference.
Industry-specific Usage
Psychology
In psychology, “bias” refers to cognitive biases that influence people’s perceptions and behaviors unconsciously.
Data Science
Bias in data science can lead to skewed or inaccurate models, particularly in machine learning applications.
Media
Media bias occurs when news outlets favor one perspective or issue, affecting public perception and discourse.
In Context
Bias can manifest in many forms, from unconscious preferences to intentional favoritism. Understanding and minimizing bias is crucial in promoting fairness and objectivity, whether in workplace decisions, research, or personal judgments.