systematic error: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2/C1Academic / Technical
Quick answer
What does “systematic error” mean?
A consistent, repeatable error associated with faulty equipment, flawed experimental design, or a biased method. It differs from random error in that it consistently pushes measurements in the same direction.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A consistent, repeatable error associated with faulty equipment, flawed experimental design, or a biased method. It differs from random error in that it consistently pushes measurements in the same direction.
In a broader sense, any non-random, inherent bias in a process, system, or model that leads to consistently inaccurate or skewed results. This can apply beyond science to areas like data collection, financial models, and logical reasoning.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling conventions follow the respective norms for 'systematic'.
Connotations
Identical. Both denote a technical, methodological flaw.
Frequency
Slightly more common in American academic writing due to the larger volume of scientific publishing, but the term is standard and equally understood in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “systematic error” in a Sentence
The [study/model] contains a systematic error in its [methodology/assumptions].A systematic error [was introduced by/can be attributed to] [faulty calibration/sampling bias].To [verb: correct/avoid] systematic error, one must...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “systematic error” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The data must be re-analysed to **systematise error** correction.
- We need to **systematically error-check** the code.
American English
- The data must be re-analyzed to **systematize error** correction.
- We need to **systematically error-check** the code.
adverb
British English
- The instrument was **systematically error-prone** at high temperatures.
American English
- The instrument was **systematically error-prone** at high temperatures.
adjective
British English
- The **systematic-error** component was significant.
- They conducted a **systematic error** analysis.
American English
- The **systematic-error** component was significant.
- They conducted a **systematic error** analysis.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
A systematic error in our sales forecasting model led us to consistently overestimate demand.
Academic
The study's conclusions were invalidated by a systematic error in data collection.
Everyday
If your bathroom scale always shows 2kg too much, that's a systematic error—it's consistently wrong in the same way.
Technical
The parallax effect in the telescope's viewing mechanism introduced a systematic error into all angular measurements.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “systematic error”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “systematic error”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “systematic error”
- Using 'systemic error' interchangeably. 'Systemic' refers to something pervading an entire system (e.g., systemic racism), while 'systematic' means done according to a fixed plan or system. A 'systematic error' is a bias introduced by a 'systematic' (methodical) flaw.
- Confusing it with 'random error'. The key distinction is consistency: systematic errors are reproducible and directional; random errors scatter unpredictably.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A mistake is a one-time human blunder. A systematic error is a reproducible inaccuracy inherent in the method or apparatus, even when used correctly.
Yes, almost all real-world measurements contain both. Random error affects precision (scatter), while systematic error affects accuracy (deviation from the true value).
By using a different method or instrument to measure the same quantity, or by measuring a known standard. If the discrepancy is consistent, it points to a systematic error.
Weighing yourself on a scale that always adds 1kg. Every reading is consistently wrong by the same amount.
Systematic error is usually academic / technical in register.
Systematic error: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsɪs.təˈmæt.ɪk ˈer.ər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsɪs.təˈmæt̬.ɪk ˈer.ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'SYSTEM-atic error' – the error is in the SYSTEM or method itself, not a one-off mistake.
Conceptual Metaphor
A FAULTY RULER (all measurements made with it are consistently too long or too short).
Practice
Quiz
How does a systematic error differ from a random error?