adj
Uncommon
empirical
ihm-PIH-rih-kuhl
Empirical (adj) means Based on observation, experiment, or experience rather than pure theory. Example: “The study provides empirical evidence that the drug works.”
adj
1
Based on observation, experiment, or experience rather than pure theory.
"For some presumptive diagnoses, empirical antibiotic therapy begins immediately, whereas specific antibiotic therapy must await the results of the culture and sensitivity test."
"The lengths were calculated according to the empirical rules of the trade."
"The study provides empirical evidence that the drug works."
"His conclusions were empirical, drawn from years of fieldwork rather than assumption."
"Teachers want empirical proof that the new method actually helps children learn."
How to use empirical
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBacked up by real observation, testing, or data, rather than just theory or guesswork.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
empirical evidence
empirical data
empirical research
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Word forms
- Plural
- empiricals
- Comparative
- more empirical
- Superlative
- most empirical
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The study provides _____ evidence that the drug works.
Etymology
From Greek empeirikos, "experienced," from empeiria, "experience."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for empirical
See all rhymes for empirical →Frequently asked questions
What does “empirical” mean?
The word “empirical” means based on observation, experiment, or experience rather than pure theory. In plain terms, backed up by real observation, testing, or data, rather than just theory or guesswork.
How do you pronounce “empirical”?
“Empirical” is pronounced ihm-PIH-rih-kuhl (/ɪmˈpɪɹɪkəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “empirical” in a sentence?
Here is “empirical” used in a sentence: “The study provides empirical evidence that the drug works.”
What is another word for “empirical”?
Words with a similar meaning to “empirical” include empiric.
What is the opposite of “empirical”?
The opposite of “empirical” — its antonyms — is nonempirical.
What part of speech is “empirical”?
“Empirical” is an adjective.
Where does the word “empirical” come from?
The word “empirical” comes from Greek. From Greek empeirikos, "experienced," from empeiria, "experience.".
Is “empirical” a common word?
“Empirical” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between empirical and theoretical?
Empirical describes knowledge or claims based on observation, experiment, or direct experience. Theoretical describes ideas derived from reasoning, models, or principles that may not yet have been tested against real-world data. Researchers often contrast empirical evidence with purely theoretical predictions to show whether a theory holds up in practice.
What does empirical evidence mean in research?
Empirical evidence refers to data gathered through observation or experimentation rather than assumption or pure logic. It is the kind of proof scientists rely on to support or reject a hypothesis, since it comes from actually measuring or witnessing something happen.
How is empirical used differently in science versus everyday speech?
In science, empirical specifically refers to findings verified through controlled experiments or systematic observation. In everyday speech, people sometimes use it more loosely to mean "based on experience" rather than guesswork, even without formal experimentation.
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