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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
Previous research on
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"previous research on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence to refer to research that has already been conducted in a particular area. For example, "Previous research on this topic has revealed several interesting facts."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Previous research on addicts focused on regions of the cortex involved in thinking and decision making.
News & Media
Previous research on mice has indicated that gut microbes play an important role in behaviour.
News & Media
Previous research on the subject appeared contradictory, suggesting that spectators helped performers in some cases but not in others.
News & Media
Previous research on taxi industry focused on diverse perspectives.
Previous research on tournaments shows two important results.
Science
Previous research on unconfined TATB-based explosives heated to 250°C revealed increased shock sensitivity.
Science
Previous research on cold adaptation included two Siberian populations and implicated a couple of related genes.
Science & Research
Previous research on the determinants of dental care utilization focuses on different issues.
Science
Previous research on the Iceman's meals focused on fecal material removed from his bowels.
Science & Research
Previous research on victimisation divides trends has examined victimisation risks whilst overlooking repeat victimisation.
Science
Previous research on physical layer network coding (PNC) focuses on the improvements in bandwidth usage efficiency.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When citing "previous research on", be specific about the area of study. For instance, instead of saying "Previous research on climate change", specify "Previous research on the impact of deforestation on climate change".
Common error
Avoid using "Previous research on" without providing enough context. Readers need to understand the specific topic or domain the research pertains to. Vague references reduce clarity and impact.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "previous research on" functions as a modifier, typically introducing a summary or reference to earlier studies related to a specific topic. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness for referring to prior studies. For example, "Previous research on addiction focused on the cortex."
Frequent in
Science
80%
News & Media
15%
Formal & Business
5%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "previous research on" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to introduce references to earlier studies. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most commonly used in formal and scientific contexts, particularly in academic papers and research reports. When using this phrase, it's important to be specific about the area of study to ensure clarity and provide proper context. Alternatives such as "prior studies on" or "earlier investigations into" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis. The phrase serves to establish a foundation of existing knowledge before presenting new findings or arguments.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Prior studies on
Replaces "research" with "studies" and "previous" with "prior", offering a more concise alternative.
Earlier investigations into
Substitutes "research" with "investigations" and uses "into" instead of "on", changing the wording slightly while keeping the meaning similar.
Existing literature regarding
Replaces "research" with "literature" and uses "regarding" instead of "on", framing it in terms of established scholarly work.
Past work concerning
Uses "work" to refer to research and "concerning" in place of "on", offering a more general and less formal alternative.
Historical analyses of
Frames the research as "analyses" that are "historical", emphasizing a longer-term perspective.
Background studies in
Presents the research as "background studies", indicating that it provides foundational knowledge.
Preceding explorations of
Substitutes "research" with "explorations" and "previous" with "preceding", altering the tone to be more exploratory.
Earlier findings related to
Focuses on the "findings" of earlier studies and uses "related to" instead of "on", shifting the emphasis to results.
Established scholarship concerning
Emphasizes the "scholarship" aspect of the research and uses "concerning" instead of "on", adding a layer of formality.
Initial inquiries into
Replaces "research" with "inquiries" and "previous" with "initial", suggesting a preliminary or exploratory nature.
FAQs
How do I properly cite "previous research on" in my academic paper?
When referring to "previous research on", ensure you provide a specific citation to the original source. This gives credit to the researchers and allows readers to verify your claims. For example: "Previous research on cognitive development (Piaget, 1952) has shown..."
What are some alternatives to the phrase "previous research on"?
Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "prior studies on", "earlier investigations into", or "existing literature regarding" the topic.
Is it necessary to always cite "previous research on"?
Yes, if you are building upon, referencing, or challenging the findings of others, citing "previous research on" is crucial for academic integrity and to give proper credit.
How does "previous research on" differ from a literature review?
"Previous research on" generally refers to specific studies or findings, while a literature review is a comprehensive overview and synthesis of all relevant studies on a particular topic. A literature review often references "previous research on".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested