empirical method

USAGE SUMMARY

"empirical method" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to a scientific approach that relies on observation and experimentation to gather data and draw conclusions. You can use it in any context where you are discussing a scientific or research topic, such as in a report, article, or academic paper. Example: "The study utilized the empirical method to collect and analyze data on the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The empirical method, and the empirical method alone, such an atheist asserts, affords a reliable method for establishing what is in fact the case.

Britannica

TUCKER: The empirical method of science is to be celebrated.

Yale University

The first relates to our understanding of the world in ways that escape the empirical method.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is the empirical method, he said, and he inherited its knack from his forefathers, four men named Dan Danz.

The New York Times

The used empirical method is qualitative.

Journal of Visual Languages & Computing

But when you talk about the "empirical method" you disavow that tradition.

University of California, Berkeley

The paper is a further investigation on the empirical method.

Journal of Process Control

The spectrum fatigue life was also predicted by empirical method.

Composites Part B: Engineering

Magendie's empirical method of conducting experiments without a guiding hypothesis was by then out of date, partly as a result of his own discoveries.

Britannica

This procedure seemed to demonstrate the virtues of empirical method, of experimentation, and of inductive generalization on the basis of precise and disciplined observation.

Britannica

After acknowledging his "deep respect" for Chomsky, Žižek criticised his empirical method of political analysis, even going so far as to joke that he "doesn't know a guy who has been more empirically wrong" than Chomsky.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the "empirical method", clearly define the observations and experiments used to gather data. Transparency enhances the credibility of your findings.

Common error

Avoid using isolated personal experiences or anecdotes as "empirical method". Empirical research requires systematic data collection and analysis, not just individual observations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "empirical method" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It denotes a specific approach to gaining knowledge rooted in experience and observation, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

65%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

News & Media

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "empirical method" refers to a systematic approach that relies on observation and experimentation to gather data. Ludwig confirms that it's grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in scientific and academic contexts. While alternatives like "experimental approach" and "data-driven methodology" exist, understanding the specific nuances of each is important for precise communication. A key writing tip is to ensure transparency in describing the observations and experiments used, while avoiding the pitfall of mistaking anecdotal evidence for true empirical data. In essence, "empirical method" underscores the importance of evidence-based reasoning in various fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

experimental approach

Focuses on the experimental aspect rather than the general reliance on observation.

data-driven methodology

Emphasizes the role of data in shaping the methodology, moving away from theoretical assumptions.

evidence-based practice

Highlights the application of empirical evidence to practical situations.

observational technique

Specifically emphasizes the observational aspect, potentially excluding experimental manipulation.

research methodology

A more general term that encompasses various approaches to research, including but not limited to empirical ones.

scientific method

Broader than just empirical, including hypothesis formulation and testing.

practical approach

Highlights the hands-on, real-world application, but lacks the specific connection to observation and data.

field research

Specifically denotes research conducted in a natural setting, which may or may not be strictly empirical.

quantitative analysis

Focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis, excluding qualitative observations.

qualitative research

Emphasizes exploratory research to gain an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations.

FAQs

How is the "empirical method" used in research?

The "empirical method" involves gathering data through observation and experimentation. This data is then analyzed to draw conclusions and test hypotheses, forming the basis for evidence-based research.

What's the difference between the "empirical method" and the scientific method?

The "scientific method" is a broader framework that includes hypothesis formulation and testing. The "empirical method" focuses specifically on observation and experimentation as the primary means of gathering evidence.

What are some examples of the "empirical method" in practice?

Examples include conducting experiments to test a scientific theory, performing surveys to gather data on public opinion, or observing animal behavior in a natural habitat.

What can I say instead of "empirical method"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "experimental approach", "data-driven methodology", or "evidence-based practice".