C1adjectiveformalacademic
US/ˌæn.ɪkˈdoʊ.təl/
UK/ˌæn.ɪkˈdəʊ.təl/
based on personal stories or a few examples, not on careful research
In context
The claim is based on anecdotal evidence from a handful of teachers.
Anecdotal reports suggest the app helps, but no proper study has been done.
In academic essays, avoid relying on anecdotal examples from your own family.
Words that go with anecdotal
adjective + noun
- anecdotal evidenceAnecdotal evidence is not enough to change national policy.
- anecdotal reportsThere are anecdotal reports of students using AI to cheat.
- anecdotal accountsThe book relies heavily on anecdotal accounts from parents.
adverb + adjective
- purely anecdotalHis evidence is purely anecdotal and cannot be checked.
- largely anecdotalSupport for the method is still largely anecdotal.