PERCENTAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Percentage is a term used to express a proportion or ratio out of a hundred. It is a numerical entity that represents a part or share of a whole expressed as a fraction of 100. The word itself is derived from the Latin word "per centum" which translates to "by the hundred."
In practical terms, percentage is a way to quantify a particular value relative to the total amount. It is often denoted by the symbol "%." For instance, if a number is said to be 50%, it means that 50 out of 100 parts of the whole is being referred to. The percentage can be calculated by dividing the part (numerator) by the whole (denominator) and then multiplying the result by 100.
Percentages find extensive applications in a variety of fields such as mathematics, finance, statistics, and business. They are frequently used to represent growth rates, discounts, tax rates, probabilities, and proportions. In finance, percentage changes are used to analyze stock market fluctuations and economic indicators.
Understanding percentages is crucial for interpreting and comparing data effectively. They provide a standardized metric that allows for easy comprehension and comparisons between different quantities. By expressing values as percentages, individuals can grasp the significance of a particular figure in relation to the total or reference value.
Overall, the concept of percentage provides a standardized and universal way to express and interpret proportions, making it a fundamental aspect of numerical representation and analysis.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for PERCENTAGE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for PERCENTAGE
Etymology of PERCENTAGE
The word "percentage" has a Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin words "per centum" which means "by the hundred". The word "per" means "through" or "by", and "centum" means "hundred". The term "per centum" was later shortened to "per cent" and eventually became "percentage" in the English language. The concept of expressing a portion or proportion out of a hundred is captured by the word "percentage".
Idioms with the word PERCENTAGE
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play the percentage game
The idiom "play the percentage game" means to approach a situation or make decisions based on calculated risks or the most likely, favorable outcome. It involves considering the probabilities and opting for the option with the highest chance of success or benefit. It suggests making choices that increase the likelihood of positive results rather than taking unnecessary risks.
Similar spelling words for PERCENTAGE
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