# What does Gaussian efficiency mean?

In case of robust estimators, What does Gaussian efficiency means? For example $Q_{_n}$ has 82% Gaussian efficiency and 50% breakdown point.

The reference is: Rousseeuw P.J., and Croux, C. (1993). “Alternatives to median absolute deviation.” J. American Statistical Assoc., 88, 1273-1283

-
please add more context. Reference where you found this would be very helpful. –  mpiktas May 6 '11 at 9:51
My guess: If the sample follows a Gaussian distribution, then the asymptotic relative efficiency of the robust estimator in 95%. –  cardinal May 6 '11 at 12:08
the reference is: Rousseeuw P.J., and Croux, C. (1993). “Alternatives to median absolute deviation.” J. American Statistical Assoc., 88, 1273-1283. –  K-1 May 7 '11 at 4:51
@cardinal Your interpretation is almost always what is intended, especially in discussions of robust estimators. I would elevate your comment from "guess" to "near certainty." –  whuber May 17 '11 at 2:48
@cardinal: your comment is the right answer. Please post it as so (i just saw this question). –  user603 Jan 30 '12 at 7:02
show 1 more comment