empirical

/ɛmˈpɪrɪkəl/

based on observation

The scientist relied on empirical evidence to support her theory.

She used data and observation to support her theory.

formal

Based on or verifiable by observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic.

The empirical approach to studying human behavior involves collecting data through surveys and experiments.

This approach involves collecting data to understand human behavior.

Often used in scientific research to emphasize the importance of data.

Collocations

empirical evidencedata and observation used to support a theoryempirical researchresearch based on observation and experience

Use 'empirical' to describe research or evidence that is based on observation or experience.

From Greek ἐμπειρικός (empeirikos), from ἐμπειρία (empeiria), meaning 'experience'.

Commonly used in academic and scientific contexts to emphasize the reliance on data.

empir-

experience

root

-ical

relating to

suffix

English Dictionary