explorative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explorative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that involves exploration or investigation, often in a research or creative context. Example: "The explorative nature of the study allowed researchers to uncover new insights into the subject matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

The passages of explorative sex are just the decorative gilding that sets this apart from countless Mills & Boons.

The Economist

Especially explorative and prophetic are such pieces as "The Moose" (1943; by Ralph Burns for the Charlie Barnet band), "Shady Lady" (1942; by Andy Gibson for Barnet), and "To a Broadway Rose" and  "'S Wonderful" (1941 and 1944, respectively; both by Ray Conniff for Artie Shaw).

Encyclopedia Britannica

He continued to make numerous explorative trips throughout Australia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although some of Blake's works feature in the gallery's staple collection, this more explorative show promises to gauge the national mood, especially considering Blake's involvement with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

Independent

Science is an explorative subject.

Independent

As it proceeds, its lively, explorative tone starts to verge on the inconsequential; it becomes a slighter work than you want it to be.

The New York Times - Arts

"Others are more explorative, taking Ed's books as a template".

The New York Times - Arts

But as she got to know Mr. Schuler, Ms. Talbott's dislike turned to respect, discovering, she said, that he was "an explorative, whimsical being".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

· From £6 in shared room without ensuite (0066 53 247 111; immhotel.com) Lub D Hostel, Bangkok The owners of Lub D wanted to combine the 'explorative spirit' of a hostel with the quality of a premium hotel and the resulting sleek, contemporary property in central Bangkok is a haven for hostelling style-seekers.

The Guardian - Travel

The marble plaque on the restored British consulate reads in English: "The so-called European Geographical and Explorative Scientific Expeditions to Africa, which were in essence and a matter of fact intended to be colonial ones to occupy and colonize vital and strategic parts of Africa, embarked from this same building".

The New York Times

"Stewart describes the process at different times as 'harnessing a fluid,'tappingng into a magic world' and 'finding a portal.' It is, for her, an 'explorative, meditative, moving, beautiful, transcendent experience that brings us all closer.'" 9.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "explorative" to describe projects, studies, or approaches that are open-ended and aim to discover new insights or possibilities. For instance, "an explorative study of consumer behavior".

Common error

While "explorative" is a valid word, overuse can make your writing sound stilted. Consider using more common synonyms like "exploratory" or "investigative" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "explorative" is as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something characterized by exploration or investigation, as seen in Ludwig's examples like "explorative trips" and "explorative show".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Informal

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explorative" functions as an adjective denoting an approach characterized by active exploration and investigation. According to Ludwig, the word is grammatically correct and sees frequent use in contexts such as news, encyclopedias and science. While "explorative" is appropriate for describing projects, studies, or approaches that are open-ended, it's prudent to consider more conventional alternatives like "exploratory" to maintain a natural writing style. Overall, while perfectly acceptable, bear in mind that choosing an alternative such as "investigative" or "inquisitive" might better suit your writing objectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exploratory

This alternative is a more commonly used synonym, directly conveying the act of exploration.

investigative

This focuses on a systematic or formal inquiry, highlighting a methodical approach to discovery.

inquisitive

This emphasizes a curious and questioning nature, often implying a desire for knowledge.

probing

This suggests a deep and thorough examination to uncover hidden information.

searching

This highlights the act of looking thoroughly for something, often implying a specific goal.

research-oriented

This emphasizes the focus on conducting research and gathering data.

discovery-based

This underlines the process of finding new things or facts.

experimental

This implies a willingness to try new things and test different approaches.

groundbreaking

This suggests pioneering or innovative work that opens up new areas of study.

pioneering

This indicates initiating or leading the way in a new field or area.

FAQs

How can I use "explorative" in a sentence?

You can use "explorative" to describe something that involves exploration or investigation. For example: "The company adopted an "explorative approach" to marketing."

What are some synonyms for "explorative"?

Some synonyms for "explorative" include "exploratory", "investigative", and "inquisitive". Choose the synonym that best fits the context.

Is it better to use "explorative" or "exploratory"?

Both "explorative" and "exploratory" are correct, but "exploratory" is more commonly used. "Explorative" might be preferred when emphasizing the active process of exploration.

In what contexts is "explorative" most appropriate?

"Explorative" is suitable in contexts where you want to emphasize the active and discovery-oriented nature of an activity, such as in research, creative endeavors, or strategic planning. For example, "an "explorative investigation" into new technologies".