exploratory approach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exploratory approach" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a method of investigation that is designed to gather information or to gain a better understanding of a subject. For example, "Researchers used an exploratory approach to investigate the effects of climate change on animal populations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Musical Offering" lends itself to Mr. Taylor's exploratory approach.

The New York Times

A descriptive exploratory approach was adopted.

Journal of Orthopaedic Nursing

But that diffidence is deployed here to set up the author's exploratory approach to writing.

The New Yorker

But he did not consider this more mellow style to be an abandonment of his earlier exploratory approach.

The New York Times

Here's My Heart brings a more exploratory approach to her choice of antique ballads (a couple in Gaelic).

The Guardian - Music

But the films that result are unlike any others not despite but because of May's personal, willful, exploratory approach.

The New Yorker

Taking an exploratory approach, the study used semi-structured interviews to gather the data.

The Journal of Academic Librarianship

And, indeed, mathematicians and scientists of all permutations have taken roughly the same carefree and exploratory approach to their summers for generations.

The New Yorker

This study takes an exploratory approach, using different data collection methods.

Entertainment Computing

But the films that result are unlike any others — not despite but because of May's personal, willful, exploratory approach.

The New Yorker

With some problems, such as curing cancer or overcoming climate change, neither the problem nor the domain is well-defined, and a more exploratory approach is required.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing research methodologies, use "exploratory approach" to convey that the study aims to uncover new insights or define the scope of a problem rather than confirm existing hypotheses.

Common error

Avoid using "exploratory approach" as a justification for a lack of specific research questions or a poorly defined methodology. Ensure your research still adheres to scientific principles and has clear objectives, even if the path to discovery is open-ended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exploratory approach" functions as a noun phrase, where 'exploratory' modifies 'approach'. It describes a specific method or strategy characterized by investigation and discovery. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exploratory approach" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase across diverse fields, particularly in science and news media. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. It effectively conveys an open-ended, investigative strategy aimed at uncovering new insights. When writing, use it to indicate a method focused on discovery rather than confirmation, but avoid using it as a substitute for rigorous methodology. Alternatives include "investigative method" and "discovery-oriented strategy". Overall, it's a valuable term for describing research and problem-solving techniques.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

investigative method

Emphasizes the structured and methodical nature of the investigation.

discovery-oriented strategy

Highlights the goal of uncovering new information or insights.

research-based method

Focuses on the systematic nature of the approach.

open-ended inquiry

Stresses the flexible and adaptable nature of the investigation.

experimental technique

Highlights the trial-and-error aspect of the approach.

probing analysis

Implies a deep and thorough examination.

inquiry-driven tactic

Emphasizes the role of questioning and investigation.

trial-and-error process

Focuses on the iterative nature of the approach.

fact-finding mission

Emphasizes the goal of uncovering relevant information.

groundbreaking research

Highlights the potential for novel findings.

FAQs

How is an "exploratory approach" different from a confirmatory approach?

An "exploratory approach" is used to investigate a topic without pre-defined hypotheses, aiming to discover patterns and insights. A confirmatory approach, on the other hand, tests specific hypotheses that have been formulated beforehand. See also "confirmatory approach".

When is it appropriate to use an "exploratory approach" in research?

An "exploratory approach" is suitable when little is known about a topic, when initial research questions are broad, or when the goal is to generate new ideas and hypotheses for further investigation.

What are some alternative ways to describe an "exploratory approach"?

Depending on the context, you can use terms like "investigative method", "discovery-oriented strategy", or "open-ended inquiry" as alternatives to "exploratory approach".

How can I incorporate an "exploratory approach" into my project?

To incorporate an "exploratory approach", start with broad research questions, use flexible data collection methods, and be open to unexpected findings. Focus on understanding the scope of the issue rather than confirming specific assumptions. You can also consider using "probing analysis".