based on personal observation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on personal observation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that your statements or conclusions are derived from your own experiences or observations rather than from research or external sources. Example: "The findings of this study are based on personal observation, highlighting the unique behaviors of the subjects involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

In 1922 the American director Robert Flaherty presented Nanook of the North, a record of Eskimo life based on personal observation, which was the prototype of many documentary films.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"One thing I would say, based on personal observation, is that if you eat large amounts of anything that makes you feel great, don't keep high levels of intake all the time," he said.

Huffington Post

Vertebral count data were based on personal observation of specimens, as well as taken from the literature [ 38, 71- 73]; polyodontid data was based on illustrations in [ 70].

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Only fossils that could be confidently assigned to clades based on personal observation and/or previous literature were included in the analysis [[ 118], Table 2].

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Four clips of sheep with score 3 were included because locomotion score 3 is the middle of the locomotion scoring scale and, based on personal observation, it was assumed that farmers do not always catch sheep with locomotion score 2 but do catch sheep with locomotion score 4 so most variability would occur at score 3.

BMC Veterinary Research

The scorings of X. radiplicatoides are primarily based on the literature [ 15], those of X. junggarensis (= X. latimarginalis[ 72]) on personal observation of IVPP material from Pingfengshan [ 72], those of X. (Annemys) levensis, and X. (Annemys) latiens based on personal observation of PIN material, and those of B. macrobios based on the literature [ 60] and photographs obtained from H. Tong.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

In another checklist, the officer is asked to note whether the suspicion was based on personal observations, a radio report or a citizen's description of a crime.

The New York Times

In the past several days, a foreigner was able to get out a detailed message describing conditions in Pyongyang based on personal observations and the reports of foreign aid workers in the city.

The New York Times

The above-mentioned and illustrated MR findings in PsA are based on personal observations and seem to reflect the radiographic changes encompassing a mixture of osteitis, enthesitis and erosion.

Insights into Imaging

I will be breaking this into a three-part post, and I want to begin this series by saying these are merely my thoughts based on personal observations while working in this sphere.

Huffington Post

Species were placed into functional groups based on personal observations of foraging behavior and food choice, nesting ecology, and natural history descriptions taken from available literature.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "based on personal observation" to clearly indicate that your statement stems from your own direct experiences, adding credibility when firsthand knowledge is relevant.

Common error

Avoid presenting personal observations as universal truths without supporting evidence. Acknowledge the subjective nature of your perspective and consider including other viewpoints or data to strengthen your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on personal observation" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the evidentiary basis for a claim or statement. It indicates that the assertion is grounded in direct, individual experience rather than external sources or data, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

27%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "based on personal observation" is a prepositional phrase that highlights the significance of firsthand experiences and direct viewpoints. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used across diverse areas, from science to journalism. To enhance the impact and clarity of your writing, remember to acknowledge potential biases inherent in personal perspectives and always support your observations with supplementary data when possible. Consider using phrases like "from my own observation" or "through direct observation" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

from my own observation

Replaces "personal" with "my own" for a more direct, subjective tone.

through direct observation

Highlights the immediacy and lack of intermediaries in the observational process.

based on my own experience

Substitutes "observation" with "experience", highlighting the experiential nature of the assessment.

based on direct experience

Highlights the personal and unmediated experiences as the foundation.

from a firsthand perspective

Emphasizes the direct, immediate quality of the observation.

as I have observed

A more concise way to state the observation, attributing it to the speaker.

in my own estimation

Shifts from direct observation to a personal estimation or judgment.

from personal scrutiny

Emphasizes a closer, more detailed personal examination.

in my direct view

Highlights the visual aspect of personal observation.

according to my understanding

Focuses on comprehension and interpretation as the basis of knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "based on personal observation" in a sentence?

You can use "based on personal observation" to preface statements derived from your own experiences, such as, "Based on personal observation, the new policy has improved employee morale."

What's a more formal alternative to "based on personal observation"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "from a firsthand perspective" or "according to direct observation". These alternatives maintain the emphasis on direct experience while conveying a more professional register.

When is it appropriate to use "based on personal observation" in writing?

Use "based on personal observation" when your argument or analysis relies on your direct experiences or firsthand encounters. This is especially relevant in fields where experiential knowledge is valued, such as ethnography or journalism.

Is there a risk of bias when information is "based on personal observation"?

Yes, "based on personal observation" can introduce bias, as individual experiences are subjective. To mitigate this, acknowledge the potential for bias and supplement your observations with objective data or diverse perspectives.