factor analyses

Noun

factor analysis (countable and uncountable, plural factor analyses)

1. (uncountable) A statistical method used to describe variability among observed correlated variables in terms of one or more unobserved variables (called factors).
   • Factor analysis is a generic term that we use to describe a number of methods designed to analyze interrelationships within a set of variables or objects.1993, Richard A. Reyment, K. G. Jöreskog, Applied Factor Analysis in the Natural Sciences, page 71
2. (countable) A statistical study performed using the method.
   • Separate exploratory factor analyses using an oblique rotation were conducted on the item sets measuring task values, task difficulty perceptions, and ability perceptions.1999, Jacquelynne S. Eccles, Allan Wigfield, “In the Mind of the Actor: The Structure of Adolescents' Achievement Task Values and Expectancy-Related Beliefs”, in Richard M. Lerner, Jasna Jovanovic...