correlation
kor-uh-LAY-shuhn
Correlation (noun) means a relationship in which two or more things tend to change together. Example: “Researchers found a correlation between sleep and memory.”
noun
1
A relationship in which two or more things tend to change together.
"Researchers found a correlation between sleep and memory."
"There's a strong correlation between exercise and mood."
"Scientists noticed a correlation between warm weather and ice cream sales."
How to use correlation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHow closely two things move or vary together.
Common mistake
Correlation doesn't mean causation — two things can be linked statistically without one causing the other.
Common pairings
strong correlation
positive correlation
correlation between
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Word forms
- Plural
- correlations
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Researchers found a _____ between sleep and memory.
Etymology
From Middle French corrélation, built from "correlate" plus the suffix "-ion".
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for correlation
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for correlation →
Frequently asked questions
What does “correlation” mean?
The word “correlation” means a relationship in which two or more things tend to change together. In plain terms, how closely two things move or vary together.
How do you pronounce “correlation”?
“Correlation” is pronounced kor-uh-LAY-shuhn (/ˌkɔɹ.əˈleɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “correlation” in a sentence?
Here is “correlation” used in a sentence: “Researchers found a correlation between sleep and memory.”
What is another word for “correlation”?
Words with a similar meaning to “correlation” include interdependence, interrelation, mutuality, reciprocalness, reciprocation and reciprocity.
What part of speech is “correlation”?
“Correlation” is a noun.
Where does the word “correlation” come from?
The word “correlation” comes from Middle French. From Middle French corrélation, built from "correlate" plus the suffix "-ion".
Is “correlation” a common word?
“Correlation” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
What is the difference between correlation and causation?
Correlation describes a relationship in which two or more things tend to change together, while causation means one thing directly brings about the other. Two things can be correlated without one causing the other.
What is the difference between correlation and correspondence?
Correlation refers to how two things change together statistically or in pattern, while correspondence more broadly means a close match or similarity between things, or an exchange of letters. Correlation is used more often in scientific or statistical contexts.
Is correlation always a strong relationship?
No, correlation can range from weak to strong. It simply describes that two or more things tend to change together, not how tightly or reliably they do so.
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