an empirical question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an empirical question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that can be answered through observation or experimentation rather than theory or speculation. Example: "Whether climate change is affecting weather patterns is an empirical question that scientists are currently investigating."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's an empirical question.

The Economist

This is typically an empirical question.

The New York Times

Ultimately, it's an empirical question.

Harvard Business Review

That's an empirical question we'll find out.

The New York Times - Science

Which force dominates is an empirical question.

Research Policy

Is this not also an empirical question?

Princeton University

To some extent this is an empirical question.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's an empirical question, though, a question about human nature.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We're approaching this as an empirical question," Dr. Rogers said.

The New York Times

"It's an empirical question, that something brings about something else, and I doubt it.

The New York Times

Whether any particular application is feasible would be an empirical question.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an empirical question", ensure that it's followed by a clear indication of how the question can be empirically addressed, such as outlining the data needed or the experimental design required.

Common error

Avoid framing a question as "an empirical question" if it can be answered through reasoning, definition, or established theory. An empirical question necessitates observation or experimentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an empirical question" functions as a noun phrase identifying a specific type of inquiry. It highlights that the answer requires empirical evidence obtained through observation, experimentation, or data analysis, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an empirical question" is a phrase used to describe a question that can only be answered through observation, experimentation, or data analysis. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, including science, news media, and academia. When using this phrase, ensure that you clearly indicate how the question can be empirically addressed. Avoid using it for questions that can be answered through reasoning or theory. Understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts will enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a question of fact

Emphasizes that the answer relies on objective reality rather than opinion.

a testable hypothesis

Shifts the focus to a specific statement that can be proven or disproven through experimentation.

a matter for investigation

Highlights the need for a thorough and systematic inquiry.

a subject for research

Focuses on the academic or scientific study needed to find an answer.

a question requiring evidence

Stresses the necessity of data to support any conclusion.

an open question

Indicates that the answer is not yet known and requires exploration.

something to be determined experimentally

Specifies the method needed to arrive at an answer.

a data-driven inquiry

Highlights the importance of empirical data in resolving the issue.

a practically verifiable issue

Indicates that the problem must be checked through experience.

a question that requires observation

The answer needs to be checked through observation.

FAQs

How do I use "an empirical question" in a sentence?

Use "an empirical question" to introduce a topic that requires observation, experimentation, or data collection to resolve. For example, "Whether a new drug is effective is "an empirical question" that needs clinical trials".

What's the difference between "an empirical question" and "a theoretical question"?

"An empirical question" requires evidence and observation to answer, while "a theoretical question" can be answered through reasoning, logic, or existing knowledge.

Which is correct, "empirical question" or "empiric question"?

"Empirical question" is the correct term. "Empiric" is an adjective related to experience or observation, but "empirical" is the more commonly used and accepted form in this context.

What can I say instead of "an empirical question"?

You can use alternatives like "a question of fact", "a testable hypothesis", or "a matter for investigation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.