random sampling

noun

, Statistics.

1. a method of selecting a sample random sample from a statistical population in such a way that every possible sample that could be selected has a predetermined probability of being selected.

Word History and Origins

Origin of random sampling¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

Pollsters usually attempt to obtain a representative sample through random sampling, where everyone has an equal chance of selection.

From New York Times

If random sampling is possible, then correlation between individuals within clusters reduces the effective population size, which suggests biologists could collect fewer samples to predict disease prevalence.

From Science Daily

While my random sampling of stolen checks numbered just 20, the resulting confusion was enough to leave experts scratching their heads.

From New York Times

“What we are seeing is more visits from AHCA, and they want to look at every patient file. They used to do a random sampling but now they want every single record,” Gallagher said.

From Seattle Times

The data McCarthy used comes from the Healthy Kids Colorado Study, a survey conducted every two years with a random sampling of 41,000 students in middle and high school.

From Seattle Times