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empirical

Adjective

IPA /ɪmˈpɪrɪkl/

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Meaning in plain English

Based on observation, experience or experiments.

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Pronunciation

empirical/ɪmˈpɪrɪkl/

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An idea begins as a guess
Researchers observe and test it
Their conclusion rests on measured results

Empirical evidence comes from observation or experience.

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I wanted empirical evidence that the new shelf could hold the books.
The researchers collected empirical data to test their explanation.

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I wanted ________ evidence that the new shelf could hold the books.

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empirical — Based on observation, experience or experiments.

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Based on observation, experience or experiments.

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Word origin

Through Latin from Greek empeirikos, meaning experienced, related to trial or experiment.

Did you know?

Empirical evidence, empirical data and empirical research are common combinations.

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