prior research

USAGE SUMMARY

"prior research" is a correct and usable term in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to previous research conducted or studied in the same (or a related) subject area. For example: "Prior research has shown that the introduction of a specific policy can have a positive effect on public health."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The researchers focused on bits of Neanderthal DNA that had been identified in prior research.

The Washington Post

He did most of the prior research.

The Guardian

Prior research typically looks at profits.

Harvard Business Review

This finding largely mirrors prior research.

The Washington Post

Your prior research should illustrate this.

The Guardian

That finding was consistent with prior research.

The Washington Post

And they also corroborate what prior research has shown.

The Guardian

No prior research experience necessary.

Stanford University

This novel methodology development extends prior research.

Renewable Energy

This result surprised even the authors, given prior research.

Harvard Business Review

The U-shape is expected, and validates prior research.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When citing "prior research", be specific by including the authors' names and publication year to give proper credit and allow readers to easily find the original sources.

Common error

Avoid making broad claims about a topic based solely on "prior research" without acknowledging the specific scope, limitations, and methodologies of those earlier studies. Always provide context and acknowledge potential biases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prior research" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig confirms that it refers to previous studies or investigations, providing context for new findings or arguments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

37%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prior research" is a noun phrase widely used to reference previous studies and investigations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, highlighting its prevalence in scientific, academic, and news contexts. To effectively use this phrase, be specific when citing sources and avoid overgeneralizing findings. Alternatives such as "previous studies" or "existing literature" can be used for variety. Remember to always provide adequate context and acknowledge limitations when building upon "prior research".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

previous studies

Focuses on the studies themselves rather than the act of researching.

earlier investigations

Emphasizes the investigative aspect of the research conducted before.

existing literature

Highlights the body of published works related to the topic.

background research

Implies research done to provide context or foundational knowledge.

preliminary findings

Refers to the initial results or outcomes of previous research.

past work

A more general term encompassing any previous efforts in the field.

historical analysis

Specifically refers to research involving the analysis of historical data.

pre-existing knowledge

Emphasizes the knowledge gained from prior inquiries.

antecedent studies

Highlights the studies that came before, influencing current research.

earlier data

Focuses on data collected from research that was performed earlier.

FAQs

How can I effectively integrate "prior research" into my writing?

Start by clearly identifying the "prior research" you're referencing, including the authors and publication year. Summarize the key findings relevant to your argument and explain how your work builds upon or diverges from it. This demonstrates a thorough understanding of the existing literature and strengthens the credibility of your own research.

What are some common synonyms for "prior research"?

You can use alternatives like "previous studies", "earlier investigations", or "existing literature" to vary your language and avoid repetition. Choose the synonym that best fits the specific context of your writing.

When is it appropriate to challenge the conclusions of "prior research"?

It's appropriate to challenge "prior research" when you have compelling evidence to suggest that the earlier findings were flawed, incomplete, or based on questionable methodologies. Clearly articulate your reasons for questioning the prior work and provide robust evidence to support your alternative interpretation. A respectful tone should always be maintained.

What's the difference between "prior research" and "future research"?

"Prior research" refers to studies and investigations that have already been conducted, while "future research" refers to studies that have yet to be performed. "Prior research" informs the current understanding of a topic, while "future research" aims to expand or refine that understanding.