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empirical

English → EnglishformaltechnicalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "empirical": Empirical refers to information acquired through observation, experimentation, or direct sensory exp

What does "empirical" mean?

Empirical refers to information acquired through observation, experimentation, or direct sensory experience rather than through pure logic, theory, or abstract reasoning. Imagine a scientist putting aside a textbook to physically measure the temperature of a liquid; they are gathering empirical data to see what actually happens in reality. It is a formal term used heavily in academic, scientific, and professional settings. You will often hear it paired with words like "evidence," "data," or "study." It serves as a strong rebuttal in arguments, implying that your point is backed by tangible proof rather than just a hunch or a philosophical guess.

"empirical" in conversation

Discussing a business strategy

I think we should pivot to social media ads, it just feels like the right move.

I think we should pivot to social media ads, it just feels like the right move.

I appreciate the intuition, but do we have any empirical evidence that it will actually increase sales?

I appreciate the intuition, but do we have any empirical evidence that it will actually increase sales?

Mark is asking for hard data to back up Sarah's gut feeling.

Debating a theory

The theory sounds perfect on paper, doesn't it?

The theory sounds perfect on paper, doesn't it?

It does, but it fails the moment you test it in the field. It lacks empirical support.

It does, but it fails the moment you test it in the field. It lacks empirical support.

Jordan distinguishes between a good theory and one that is proven by observation.

"empirical" in a sentence

  1. We need empirical data to support our claims.

    We need empirical data to support our claims.

  2. The scientist conducted several experiments to gather empirical evidence for her hypothesis.

    The scientist conducted several experiments to gather empirical evidence for her hypothesis.

  3. While the philosophical argument was elegant, it lacked the empirical grounding necessary to convince the skeptical committee.

    While the philosophical argument was elegant, it lacked the empirical grounding necessary to convince the skeptical committee.

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