Averages out is a common phrase used in everyday language, but what does it really mean? In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of averages out, its origin, and how it is used in different contexts. We will also look at its synonyms, antonyms, and root words, as well as provide examples of how it is used in sentences.
Definitions
Averages out is a phrasal verb that means to balance or even out a set of numbers or data. It is used to describe the process of finding the mean or average of a group of numbers to get a representative value. When we say that something averages out, we mean that it is not extreme in any particular direction and that it falls somewhere in the middle.
Origin
The origin of the phrase averages out can be traced back to the 16th century when the word “average” was used to describe a loss incurred by a ship or cargo. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to include the concept of finding a middle ground or balancing out a set of numbers.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, averages out means “to have an average value or amount over a period of time.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “to balance or equalize something by taking an average.”
Associations
Averages out is often associated with statistics, mathematics, and finance. It is used to describe the process of finding the mean or average of a set of numbers or data points. It is also commonly used in business and economics to describe the balancing out of profits and losses over time.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of averages out include balance, even out, level, equalize, and normalize. These words all describe the process of finding a middle ground or balancing out a set of numbers or data points.
Antonyms
Antonyms of averages out include skew, bias, and distort. These words describe situations where the data or numbers are not evenly distributed and may be influenced by external factors.
The same root words
The root words of averages out are “average” and “out.” Average is derived from the Middle English word “averay,” which means a duty or charge. Out is derived from the Old English word “utan,” which means outside or away from.
Example Sentences
- “The temperature averages out to be around 70 degrees Fahrenheit in this region.”
- “The company’s profits have been averaging out over the past year.”
- “We need to average out the data to get a more accurate representation of the results.”
- “The team’s performance has been inconsistent, but it tends to average out over the course of the season.”
- “The stock market tends to average out over time, despite fluctuations in the short term.”