C2nounformalpsychologyacademic
US/hjʊˈrɪs.tɪk/
UK/hjʊˈrɪs.tɪk/
a quick mental shortcut that helps people make a decision without thinking through every detail
In context
People often use a simple heuristic, such as choosing the most familiar brand, when shopping.
The study shows that heuristics can lead to fast but sometimes biased judgments.
Doctors rely on a heuristic when they must diagnose a patient in just a few minutes.
Words that go with heuristic
verb + noun
- use a heuristicMost of us use a heuristic when we choose a restaurant.
adjective + noun
- simple heuristicA simple heuristic can save time but may cause errors.
verb + preposition
- rely on heuristicsManagers often rely on heuristics under pressure.
noun + noun
- heuristics and biasesKahneman's work on heuristics and biases won a Nobel Prize.
- availability heuristicThe availability heuristic makes rare events seem more likely.