Nonrepresentative

Describing something that does not accurately or proportionally reflect a larger group, population, or set of characteristics. This lack of accurate representation can occur in samples, data, or any collection where the composition deviates significantly from the intended or expected distribution. It often implies a bias or skew in the selection process, leading to inaccurate conclusions or generalizations about the whole. The term highlights a deficiency in how something mirrors the broader entity it is supposed to represent, posing potential challenges for accurate analysis or understanding.

Nonrepresentative meaning with examples

• The survey sample was nonrepresentative because it oversampled urban residents and neglected the rural population, skewing the results and leading to an inaccurate portrayal of public opinion on agricultural policy. This bias made the data unreliable for broader generalizations.
• A jury comprised solely of individuals from a single socioeconomic background would be deemed nonrepresentative. Its composition would not reflect the diversity of the community, potentially leading to unfair verdicts and biased judicial processes.
• Due to the lack of participants from minority racial groups, the clinical trial’s results were nonrepresentative of the effectiveness of the new drug. Its findings may not generalize to these underrepresented populations, limiting its usefulness.
• The data collected from a single, affluent neighborhood was considered nonrepresentative of the entire city. It lacked diversity in income levels and cultural backgrounds, rendering its conclusions irrelevant to other areas.
• The historical text's selection of political figures was nonrepresentative of the broader populace. It failed to include the voices and perspectives of women, laborers, and marginalized communities, distorting the era's reality.