Percentile

usgb/pərˈsentaɪl/
noun

A value, below which a certain percent of the data falls.

She scored in the 90th percentile on her test, meaning she scored higher than 90% of the people who took the same test.
Visual representation of "percentile" - A value, below which a certain percent of the data falls.

Often appears as...

  • 90th percentile
  • score in a percentile

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "percentile"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Data Comparison

Percentiles compare individual scores or data to a larger group, showing where it stands.

Illustration for Data Comparison
His height is in the 80th percentile for his age group.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not a Percentage

A percentile is not the same as a percentage; it's about rank within a group, not the score itself.

Illustration for Not a Percentage
Earning a score in the 70th percentile doesn’t mean you got 70% correct.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Quantitative Analysis

Percentiles are often used in exams and statistics to objectively compare data points.

Illustration for Quantitative Analysis
The survey results are in the 55th percentile, indicating moderate satisfaction.
Visual representation of the word "Percentile"

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