predictor variable
- noun
- /prɪˈdɪktər ˈvɛrɪəbl/
- Specialized
:
variable predictora
- In our research study, we identified years of education as a key predictor variable for income levels.
Examples
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The first model included only our main predictor variable, classroom teaching experience.
Academic text (2008) -
Multiple regression was selected as the analysis for this question to examine the impact of predictor variables on trauma reactions.
Academic text (2008) -
We used rice consumption as a predictor variable in two ways.
Academic text (2012) -
Multicollinearity was not found for the predictor variables.
Academic text (2008) -
We constructed five sets of predictor variables (Table 1).
Academic text (2012) -
All relevant predictor variables identified in the literature and included in this study were entered in the first step of the regression analysis.
Academic text (2008) -
A set of four different predictor variables was needed, and none by itself could successfully differentiate the high from the low performer group.
Academic text (2012) -
The correlations between the two predictor variables and the two criterion variables can be seen in Table 1.
Academic text (2008) -
Univariate tests were conducted to assess the relationship between the individual predictor variables and case-control status.
Academic text (2012) -
As shown in the correlation matrix (Table 4), all of the predictor variables were correlated significantly with at least one of the outcome variables.
Academic text (2008)
Synonyms
22
4.9
A sign or fact that shows what will happen in the future
A variable that predicts change in something else, for example age
A measured factor that can affect study results and researchers often control it
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning 'a variable used to forecast another variable' is directly derivable from combining 'predictor' (one that predicts) with 'variable' (an element that can assume values). This noun-noun compound follows regular compositional patterns and has clear parallels in other languages, so learners who know both constituents should readily infer the MWE meaning.
Etymology
Predictor variable comes from the idea of a clue that helps you guess the future: for example, a thermometer reading (a variable) can act as a predictor for rain. So, it means a variable used to 'forecast' or 'estimate' another variable.