Definition

1. Noun:
   • A statistical relationship between two variables where an increase in one variable is associated with a decrease in the other: A "negative correlation" describes an inverse relationship. When the value of variable X increases, the value of variable Y tends to decrease, and vice-versa. The strength of this relationship is measured by a correlation coefficient that falls between 0 and -1.

Usage

• The term is used primarily in statistics, data analysis, and scientific research to describe and quantify an inverse relationship between two measured factors.
• It indicates that the variables move in opposite directions.

Examples

• Noun:
  • There is a negative correlation between exercise frequency and body fat percentage. (As exercise increases, body fat percentage tends to decrease.)
  • The study found a strong negative correlation between hours of sleep and levels of stress. (More sleep was associated with lower stress.)
  • A correlation coefficient of -0.85 indicates a very strong negative correlation.

Advanced Usage

• "To show a negative correlation": To demonstrate or have this inverse statistical relationship.
  • The data from the experiment showed a negative correlation between temperature and pressure.
• "To exhibit a negative correlation": To display or possess this relationship.
  • These two economic indicators often exhibit a negative correlation.

Variants and Related Words

• Inverse correlation (n): A synonym for negative correlation.
• Negative relationship (n): A more general, less technical term for the same concept.
• Correlation coefficient (n): The numerical measure (between -1 and +1) that indicates the strength and direction of a correlation.
• Anticorrelation (n): A term sometimes used in physics and engineering with a similar meaning.

Synonyms

• Inverse correlation
• Inverse relationship

Antonyms

• Positive correlation: A correlation where both variables increase or decrease together.

Noun

1. a correlation in which large values of one variable are associated with small values of the other; the correlation coefficient is between 0 and -1