C1adjectiveformalacademicscience
US/ɪmˈpɪr.ɪ.kəl/
UK/ɪmˈpɪr.ɪ.kəl/
based on observation, experiments or real data rather than on theory alone
In context
There is little empirical evidence that longer school days improve results.
The book combines theory with empirical research from classrooms in five countries.
Such claims need to be tested on empirical grounds, not simply accepted.
Words that go with empirical
adjective + noun
- empirical evidenceThe theory is popular but lacks empirical evidence.
- empirical researchMore empirical research is needed on online learning.
- empirical dataThe model was checked against empirical data from three cities.
- empirical studyThis is the first empirical study of homework in Vietnam.
- empirical analysisAn empirical analysis shows that the policy had little effect.