pilot study

USAGE SUMMARY

"pilot study" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a small, preliminary study used as a basis for further research or development. For example, "The researchers conducted a pilot study to test the efficacy of their new drug."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It's a pilot study," she said.

The New York Times

Mrs. Tesauro is in the pilot study.

The New York Times - Health

Not according to this pilot study.

The Guardian - Opinion

Amanda entered into another pilot study that Fallon was conducting.

The New Yorker

Pilot study.

Journal of Contaminant Hydrology

The pilot study was successful.

Forbes

Experimental pilot study.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

Descriptive pilot study.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

Design: Prospective, pilot study.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

RA supervised the pilot study.

EJNMMI Research

Design: Case series pilot study.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pilot study", clearly state its objectives and how the results will inform future, larger-scale studies.

Common error

Avoid generalizing the findings of a "pilot study" to a larger population. Pilot studies are primarily for feasibility and preliminary data, not definitive conclusions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pilot study" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and used in written English. It identifies a preliminary study conducted before a larger one.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pilot study" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe a preliminary study conducted before a larger investigation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usage across various contexts, particularly in scientific research and news reporting. It’s important to remember that the primary goal of a "pilot study" is to assess feasibility and refine methodology, and its findings should not be overgeneralized due to its limited scope. Alternatives like "feasibility study" or "preliminary study" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feasibility study

This alternative emphasizes the assessment of whether a project or study is viable.

preliminary study

This option highlights the initial and preparatory nature of the study.

exploratory study

This phrase suggests an investigation aimed at discovering new insights or understanding.

trial run

This term is less formal and refers to a test or experiment conducted before full implementation.

test study

This option is a straightforward way to describe a study conducted for testing purposes.

initial investigation

This alternative focuses on the beginning phase of an inquiry or examination.

proof of concept study

This phrase denotes a study to determine if an idea can be turned into a reality.

formative study

This highlights that the purpose of the study is to shape or form subsequent research.

small-scale study

This option emphasizes the limited size and scope of the study.

vanguard study

This alternative underlines the pioneering and leading-edge aspect of the study.

FAQs

How is a "pilot study" typically used in research?

A "pilot study" is used to test the feasibility of a larger study, refine research methods, and estimate the sample size needed for a full-scale investigation. It helps identify potential problems before significant resources are invested.

What distinguishes a "pilot study" from a full-scale study?

A "pilot study" is smaller in scope and sample size than a full-scale study. Its primary goal is to assess feasibility and refine methodology, while a full-scale study aims to draw definitive conclusions and generalize findings.

What are some alternatives to "pilot study"?

You can use alternatives like "feasibility study", "preliminary study", or "exploratory study" depending on the specific context and purpose of the initial investigation.

What limitations are typically associated with "pilot study" results?

Due to its small sample size, a "pilot study" may not provide statistically significant results. Findings should be interpreted cautiously and not generalized to the broader population without further investigation in a larger study.