probable error

noun

, Statistics.

1. a quantity formerly used as a measure of variability: equal to 0.6745 times the standard deviation. A normally distributed population has half of its elements within one probable error of the mean.

probable error

/ prŏb′ə-bəl /

1. The amount by which the arithmetic mean of a sample is expected to vary because of chance alone.

Word History and Origins

Origin of probable error¹

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

From a series of measures of the angle between Jupiter’s satellites and the planet, made in June and July 1794 and in August and September 1795, Schur finds the mass of Jupiter = 1/1048.55 � 1.45, a result which accords well within the limits of its probable error with the received value of the mass derived from modern researches.

From Project Gutenberg

Trigonometrical Surveys in India, to be in probable error to the following extent:   Present SurveyValue of Height Most probableValue.

From Project Gutenberg

Leaving out of consideration the observer's possible, and even probable, error, the question is, can a body under these conditions be brought from a solid to a liquid state with the evolution of less light?

From Project Gutenberg

After the average is given a number in parenthesis which is the probable error.

From Project Gutenberg

With the small number of cases involved the probable error is too great to allow either of these measures as indicative of relationship.

From Project Gutenberg