priori

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'priori' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used in the phrase a priori, which means from a general rule or principle rather than from specific cases. For example, you might say, "Using a priori reasoning, we can assume that the population of this country is increasing."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Given the huge waste and poor productivity in the public services, there is no a priori reason why these cuts cannot be covered by public spending savings, as Osborne argued.

The Guardian

We are maintaining that Russian investments are a priori bad, in and of themselves harmful, KGB investments.

The Economist

They are associated with emotional manipulation and dismissed a priori by many as profane.

The Economist

And markets are saying "well I guess we have our answer".Or to be succinct about things, there is no a priori reason to think that generating adequate demand requires rising indebtedness.

The Economist

Given the terms of the trade-off, it is not clear a priori that it is preferable to minimise the risk of inflation rather than that of default.It is an elegant defence of QE and the paper also musters an explanation for the difference between ECB and Fed policy.

The Economist

Double Dutch The branding of Saint Rudy Reprints Related items Electricity in America: Life after EnronNov 21st 2002 Citigroup: Should Sandy go?Nov 21st 2002 Ethical reporting: IrresponsibleNov 21st 2002 Crime in Mexico: The very odd coupleOct 17th 2002Being both a lawyer and a politician would normally rule out a person from the virtue business a priori.

The Economist

Last year, the company received 120,000 applicants for 3,000 jobs, and it was the only sizeable American airline to make a profit.Leave well aloneSince Anglo-Saxon companies have tended to be reasonably responsible in the past, without any government bullying, there must a good a priori case for leaving them alone.

The Economist

In its very structure this majority is 'closed', petrified; it repels a priori any change other than changes within the system.

The Economist

If you look at recent discoveries, they have no a priori bearing in physical reality at all.The naive interpretation that mathematics comes from physical reality just doesn't work.

The Economist

This is not just an a priori assertion; the "policies and measures" approach got nowhere when floated at UN negotiations in the 1990s.Mr Victor's idea of "climate clubs", in which countries keen on action band together and entice the less willing with offers of preferential technology and investment deals, looks as if it might yet have something to offer.

The Economist

To ignore an established, widely used low-carbon technology a priori when committed to massive long-term decarbonisation makes no sense.There are also areas where the consensus between the parties falls short of what green lobbies and others want.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "priori", ensure it is part of the phrase "a priori", indicating knowledge or reasoning derived from theoretical deduction rather than empirical observation. This helps maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a priori" knowledge is universally true or applicable in all contexts. While it's valuable for establishing foundational principles, always validate its conclusions with empirical evidence where possible to prevent flawed reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "priori" primarily functions as part of the expression "a priori", an adjective modifying nouns related to knowledge, reasoning, or assumptions. It indicates that something is known or inferred independently of experience. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in philosophical and academic contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "priori", primarily used within the phrase "a priori", signifies knowledge or reasoning derived from deduction rather than empirical observation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently encountered in academic, philosophical, and scientific contexts. The phrase's usage carries a formal register, emphasizing theoretical foundations over experiential evidence. It's crucial to remember that while "a priori" reasoning provides a strong base, validating its conclusions with empirical data is essential to avoid potential flaws. Understanding these nuances allows for more effective and precise communication in various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Independent of observation

Stresses the lack of reliance on observational data, a crucial element of "priori" reasoning.

Without empirical evidence

Directly contrasts with empirical methods, underscoring the non-empirical nature of "priori" knowledge.

Through reasoning alone

Emphasizes the use of intellect and logic as the sole basis for knowledge, aligning with "priori".

From first principles

Emphasizes reasoning from basic assumptions or fundamental truths, akin to starting "priori".

By logical deduction

Specifies the method of reasoning used, which is characteristic of "priori" approaches.

Deductively

Focuses on reasoning from general principles, similar to "priori" but highlights the deductive process.

From theoretical considerations

Focuses on the theoretical basis of the reasoning, which is typical in "priori" contexts.

Based on assumptions

Highlights the reliance on pre-existing assumptions, a key aspect of "priori" reasoning.

Using innate knowledge

Highlights the concept of pre-existing or inherent knowledge, often associated with "priori" understanding.

From preconceived notions

Suggests that reasoning starts from existing beliefs or ideas, which is common in "priori" approaches.

FAQs

How is "a priori" knowledge different from "a posteriori" knowledge?

"A priori" knowledge is derived from reason and logic, independent of experience, while "a posteriori" knowledge relies on empirical observation. For example, mathematical truths are often considered "a priori", whereas scientific facts are typically "a posteriori".

When is it appropriate to use "a priori" reasoning?

Use "a priori" reasoning when establishing foundational principles or making deductions based on established axioms. It is suitable in fields like mathematics, logic, and theoretical physics. However, always complement it with empirical validation where applicable.

What are some common examples of "a priori" knowledge?

Examples of "a priori" knowledge include logical truths (e.g., "A=A"), mathematical axioms (e.g., "1+1=2"), and certain metaphysical principles. These are considered true based on reason alone, without needing empirical confirmation.

Can "a priori" knowledge be incorrect?

Yes, if the initial axioms or assumptions are flawed, the resulting "a priori" conclusions will also be incorrect. While the reasoning process itself may be valid, the truth of the conclusions depends on the validity of the starting points.