experimental
Experimental (adj) means based on or used for testing new ideas; not yet proven or standard. Example: “The hospital is trying an experimental treatment for the disease.”
How to Use Experimental
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething new and untested, done to see if it works.
Word Forms
more experimental comparative, experimentals plural, most experimental superlative
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The hospital is trying an _____ treatment for the disease.
Etymology
From experiment + the adjective ending -al.
Related Words
Rhymes for experimental
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “experimental” mean?
The word “experimental” means based on or used for testing new ideas; not yet proven or standard. In plain terms, something new and untested, done to see if it works.
How do you pronounce “experimental”?
“Experimental” is pronounced ihks-peh-ruh-MEHN-tuhl (/ɪkspɛɹəˈmɛntəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “experimental” in a sentence?
Here is “experimental” used in a sentence: “The hospital is trying an experimental treatment for the disease.”
What part of speech is “experimental”?
“Experimental” is an adjective.
Is “experimental” a common word?
“Experimental” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between "experimental" and "empirical"?
"Experimental" describes something based on testing new, unproven ideas, while "empirical" describes knowledge gained from observation or experience rather than theory. An experimental treatment is still being tested, whereas empirical evidence is data already gathered from the real world.
What is the difference between "experimental" and "innovative"?
"Experimental" stresses that something is being tried out and is not yet proven or standard, so it may still fail. "Innovative" emphasises that something is new and inventive, usually with a more positive, successful connotation.