Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
representative sample
noun
/ˌrɛprɪˈzɛntətɪv ˈsæmpl/
Definition
A representative sample is a subset of a population that accurately reflects the characteristics of the larger group.
Examples
- In order to obtain accurate results, the researchers collected a representative sample of the community.
- The survey was conducted using a representative sample to ensure every demographic was considered.
- Using a representative sample allows scientists to generalize their findings to the entire population.
Meaning
It is used in research and statistical analysis to draw conclusions about a whole population based on observations made from the smaller group.
Synonyms
- sample
- subset
- cross-section
