a priori

USAGE SUMMARY

"a priori" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to express something that is true by its own nature, or is assumed to be true without need for proof or demonstration. For example, "It can be assumed a priori that the two systems are incompatible."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A priori.

The Guardian

They're not a priori true.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's just a priori wrong".

The New York Times

Is there a priori knowledge?

University of California, Berkeley

with no a priori deadline.

University of California, Berkeley

But a priori knowledge is also universal.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It should not be declared dead a priori.

The New York Times

But such a connection cannot be ruled out a priori.

The Guardian - Opinion

That is why it should not be excluded a priori.

The Guardian - Business

A priori, unearned love helps something become good.

The New Yorker

MICHAELS Results don't lie, unlike language and a priori knowledge.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing in technical fields, such as science or philosophy, ensure that your audience understands the implications of using "a priori" assumptions, as they form the basis for subsequent arguments or analyses.

Common error

Avoid using "a priori" when you actually mean "a posteriori". "A priori" refers to knowledge or justification that is independent of experience, while "a posteriori" refers to knowledge that is derived from experience. Use "a posteriori" if your statement relies on empirical evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a priori" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates that something is known or inferred through reasoning or deduction, rather than empirical observation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use signifies knowledge independent of sensory experience.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a priori" is a widely recognized and grammatically sound phrase, predominantly used in academic, scientific and philosophical discussions. As Ludwig AI explains, it signifies knowledge derived from reasoning or deduction rather than empirical evidence. While its usage is generally correct, it's important to distinguish it from its antonym, "a posteriori". Although it appears most frequently in Science, News & Media and Academia sources, due to its formality, it is advised to be avoided during day-to-day conversation, in favor of less high-flown synonyms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by theoretical deduction

Similar to "a priori", but places greater emphasis on theoretical processes.

independent of experience

Highlights the separation from empirical evidence, emphasizing reliance on innate or logical reasoning.

based on deduction

Emphasizes the deductive reasoning aspect, focusing on deriving conclusions from established principles.

on theoretical grounds

Focuses on justification based on established theories rather than practical results.

from first principles

Highlights reasoning from foundational assumptions, suggesting a return to basic truths.

prior to experience

Focuses on the knowledge existing before empirical observation.

before the fact

Emphasizes timing, indicating knowledge or assumptions made ahead of concrete information.

presuppositionally

Highlights the aspect of assuming something beforehand as a basis for reasoning.

antecedently

Refers to something that precedes in time or order, influencing subsequent events or knowledge.

conceptually

Focuses on the idea that something is understood or formed as a concept before practical experience.

FAQs

How is "a priori" used in a sentence?

The phrase "a priori" is used to describe knowledge or reasoning that is derived from deduction rather than empirical observation. For example, "It can be assumed "a priori" that mathematical axioms are self-evident".

What's the difference between "a priori" and "a posteriori"?

"A priori" knowledge is justified independently of experience, whereas "a posteriori" knowledge relies on empirical evidence. A statement known "a priori" is true by definition or logical necessity.

What are some synonyms for "a priori"?

Alternatives to "a priori" include "by definition", "deductively", or "from first principles", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a priori" in everyday conversation?

While technically correct, "a priori" is more commonly used in academic, philosophical or scientific contexts. In everyday conversation, it may sound overly formal or pretentious. Simpler alternatives like "beforehand" or "in advance" are often more suitable.