adjective
empirical
em-PEER-ih-kul/ɪmˈpɪrɪkl/
Based on observation or experiment rather than theory alone.
The researchers gather empirical evidence to test their new theory.
Etymology
The “in” and “trial” elements lead through “experienced” to knowledge gained through practical use. Originally associated with medicine guided by experience rather than theory, the adjective broadened to describe conclusions grounded in observation or experiment.
In context
science is something that it's an empirical process where you you make an observation you form a hypothesis you can set up an experiment
More examples
- Her claim sounds plausible but lacks empirical support.
- The report combines mathematical models with empirical data from field measurements.
- An empirical approach tests ideas against what actually happens.
Forms
empirically adverb — Through direct observation or practical experiment.
empiricism noun — The view that knowledge comes from experience.
Similar words
- observational
- Based on watching events rather than conducting controlled experiments.
- experimental
- Based specifically on experiments, rather than observation alone.