Correlation Meaning
/ˌkɒɹ.əˈleɪ.ʃən/Definition, CEFR level B2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounA reciprocal, parallel or complementary relationship between two or more comparable objects.
nounOne of the several measures of the linear statistical relationship between two random variables, indicating both the strength and direction of the relationship.
Sentence Examples
Correlation does not imply causation.
Correlation does not equal causation.
There is a direct correlation between exposure to sun and skin cancer.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The study revealed a strong ____ between exercise frequency and heart health.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
____ does not imply causation.
Word Origin & History
From Middle French corrélation. Morphologically correlate + -ion.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"For example, scientists can use data from larger studies about the correlation between antibody levels and vaccine efficacy in adults to make a prediction about vaccine efficacy in children."
— 2022 March 22, Tasnim Ahmed, “How protected are we against Covid-19? Scientists search for a test to measure immunity”, in CNN:
"While there are physiological changes throughout the day that may influence how you handle things, there are bigger correlations between mental health and well-being and time of year, according to Rutledge."
— 2025 February 4, Madeline Holcombe, “Just deal with it in the morning. Your mental health will be better then, study suggests”, in CNN:
Explore More B2 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The study revealed a strong ____ between exercise frequency and heart health.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
____ does not imply causation.