CLUSTER ANALYSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Cluster analysis is a statistical technique used in data analysis and data mining to group similar objects or data points into clusters based on their characteristics or similarities. It is particularly useful in identifying patterns, relationships, and structures within large datasets that may not be initially apparent.
In cluster analysis, the algorithm assigns each data point to a cluster such that the objects within each cluster are more similar to each other than to those in other clusters. The clustering process is guided by various methods, including distance measures, similarity measures, or density-based algorithms, to determine the similarities and dissimilarities between objects.
The primary goal of cluster analysis is to group objects based on their attributes or features, with the aim of gaining insights into the underlying structure or patterns in the data. It helps to uncover hidden trends, similarities, or differences. Researchers often use cluster analysis to segment datasets into meaningful groups for further analysis or decision-making.
Cluster analysis has diverse applications across various fields, including market research, customer segmentation, genomics, image processing, text mining, and social network analysis, among others. By grouping similar objects or data points into clusters, this analysis technique enables researchers and analysts to comprehend complex datasets, simplify data interpretation, make predictions, and support informed decision-making.
Overall, cluster analysis plays a vital role in data exploration and provides a powerful tool for understanding the structure and relationships within datasets.
Common Misspellings for CLUSTER ANALYSIS
- xluster analysis
- vluster analysis
- fluster analysis
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- ckuster analysis
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- couster analysis
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- clhster analysis
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- clister analysis
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- clusrer analysis
Etymology of CLUSTER ANALYSIS
The word "Cluster Analysis" derives from the combination of "cluster" and "analysis".
The term "cluster" originated from the Old English word "clustor", which referred to a bunch or group. It is related to the Middle Low German word "klister", meaning a clot or lump. Over time, "cluster" evolved to describe a collection or group of similar things or individuals.
The word "analysis" has its roots in the Ancient Greek term "analusis", which means a breaking up or dissolution. It comes from the components "ana" (up, throughout) and "lysis" (loosening, unfastening). Initially, "analysis" was used in a general sense to describe the separation or examination of a complex subject into its constituent parts to better understand it.
Therefore, "cluster analysis" can be understood as the examination or investigation of grouping similar objects together into distinct clusters or collections.
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