Bias
/ˈbaɪəs/
Definitions
2 meaningsA tendency to lean toward one side of an issue or another, often unfairly.
/ˈbaɪəs/
A prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another, usually in a way considered to be unfair.
His bias towards his own team was evident.
💡 Simply: An unfair preference for one thing over another.
More Examples
The journalist tried to avoid bias in her reporting.
How It's Used
"The study revealed a significant gender bias in hiring practices."
"The judge was accused of showing bias towards the prosecution."
To influence someone or something unfairly.
/ˈbaɪəs/
To influence (someone or something) in a way that shows favoritism or prejudice.
The judge's decision was biased against the defendant.
💡 Simply: To make someone or something unfair.
More Examples
The study was criticized for being biased towards a certain outcome.
How It's Used
"The media coverage was biased towards the government's perspective."
Idioms & expressions
to have a bias against something
To be prejudiced against something.
"She had a bias against modern art."
From Middle English biais, from Old French biais, from biais "slant, slope," of obscure origin, possibly related to Old French biaiser "to slant, deviate.
The word 'bias' has evolved from its early meanings related to slant and direction, gradually developing its more modern connotation of prejudice and unfairness.
Memory tip
Imagine a slanted line; that's how a bias skews your perspective.
Word Origin
"slant, slope"