word
Regression to the Mean
rih-GRESH-un too thuh meen
rɪˈɡrɛʃ.ən tuː ðə miːnListen
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Syllable breakdown
rihGRESHuntothemean
Dictionary meaning
The statistical phenomenon in which an extreme performance measurement tends to be followed by a less extreme one as chance variation returns toward average levels, crucial in sports for distinguishing genuine skill from hot or cold streaks.
Examples
- The pitcher's .200 BABIP was likely to regress to the mean in the second half of the season.
- Understanding regression to the mean prevents teams from overreacting to short-term results.
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