Empirical
Drug trials, crash tests, and taste tests share one rule: no theory survives contact with measured results, and this adjective marks what the data actually showed.
Learn This WordMeaning
Based on observation, measurement, or experiment rather than theory, logic, or pure reasoning.
Memory trick
EMPIRICAL = EMPIRE of proof: ruled by experiments, not opinions.
Examples
The study provided empirical support for the new pricing model.
Empirical results contradicted what the simulation had predicted.
Good science favors empirical evidence over elegant assumptions.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology
From Greek empeirikos "experienced," from empeiria "experience," from en- "in" + peira "trial, experiment."
Usage Notes
Essential GMAT vocabulary for reading comprehension passages about research: empirical = shown by data, not derived from theory.
Real-life contexts
Use in research: "Do we have empirical backing for that claim?"
Use in debate: "Theory says yes, but the empirical record says no."
Use in study: "Prefer empirical checks over gut feeling."
Common Mistakes
Empirical describes evidence from observation or experiment, not merely practical experience in general.
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Part of Speech
adjective
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Related Words
Pragmatic
Dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations.
Rationale
A set of reasons or a logical basis for a course of action, belief, or decision.
Arbitrary
Based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system; unrestrained in the exercise of power.