Experimentally: meaning, definitions and examples

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experimentally

 

[ɪkˌsperɪˈmentəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

scientific research

In a way that involves scientific experiments or testing of hypotheses.

Synonyms

empirically, observationally, practically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
experimentally

Used when referring to something done or confirmed through experiments or scientific methods.

  • The new medication was tested experimentally on lab rats.
  • Experimentally, the hypothesis was proven correct.
empirically

Used when something is based on observed and measured evidence, rather than theory or pure logic.

  • The effectiveness of the treatment was empirically validated through numerous studies.
  • The theory is not just conceptual; it has been empirically supported.
observationally

Used when referring to information or data gathered through careful observation rather than experimentation.

  • Observationally, the stars seem to follow a fixed pattern.
  • The behavior of the animals was studied observationally over several months.
practically

Used to describe something that is done in a real-world setting or in practice, often as opposed to theoretically. It also can mean something is almost or nearly the case.

  • Practically, the new system improved efficiency by 30 percent.
  • The recipe is practically foolproof if you follow the steps.

Examples of usage

  • Researchers are studying the phenomenon experimentally.
  • The drug's effectiveness was tested experimentally in a controlled environment.
  • She approached the problem experimentally, testing various solutions.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a practical manner

In a way that involves practical testing or application.

Synonyms

practically, pragmatically, realistically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
experimentally

Use when referring to a method or action carried out for the purpose of testing or discovering something.

  • The new drug was tested experimentally to observe its effects.
  • Scientists worked experimentally to find a solution to the problem.
practically

Use when describing actions that are sensible, realistic, or useful in real-life situations.

  • Practically speaking, we need to leave early to avoid traffic.
  • She is practically certain that the meeting will be rescheduled.
realistically

Use when referring to what is feasible or likely to happen in reality, often when setting expectations or making plans.

  • Realistically, we can't finish the project by tomorrow.
  • She assessed the situation realistically and decided to take a different course of action.
pragmatically

Use when emphasizing a realistic and sensible approach to problems or tasks, especially in a way that considers the practical consequences of actions.

  • He approached the situation pragmatically, focusing on results rather than ideals.
  • Pragmatically, they decided to allocate their resources to the most pressing issues first.

Examples of usage

  • The new software was implemented experimentally to assess its performance.
  • He decided to approach the project experimentally, trying different methods to see what works best.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'experimentum', meaning 'a trial or test'.
  • The suffix '-ally' indicates manner, transforming an adjective into an adverb, thus focusing on how something is done.
  • Over time, the word's usage has expanded from scientific contexts to include various fields where testing is involved.

Science

  • In scientific research, hypotheses are often tested 'experimentally' to validate theories.
  • Experimental methods include controlled experiments, field studies, and randomized trials, each designed to minimize bias.
  • The concept is central to the scientific method, which relies on repeatable tests to draw reliable conclusions.

Psychology

  • Behavioral experiments help psychologists understand human actions under various conditions.
  • Experimental designs can clarify cause-and-effect relationships by controlling variables and measuring outcomes.
  • Notable psychological experiments, such as the Stanford prison experiment, raised ethical debates about the treatment of participants.

Education

  • In education, teaching methods can be tested 'experimentally' to see what helps students learn best.
  • Hands-on learning approaches allow students to discover concepts through experimentation, enhancing understanding.
  • Educational experiments often assess new curricula or technology in classroom settings to improve teaching strategies.

Art and Culture

  • Artists sometimes create 'experimentally' using new materials or techniques to push boundaries in their work.
  • The experimental music genre challenges traditional music forms, inviting audiences to rethink their listening experiences.
  • In literature, authors may write 'experimentally' to explore unconventional narrative structures or styles.

Translations

Translations of the word "experimentally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 experimentalmente

🇮🇳 प्रायोगिक रूप से

🇩🇪 experimentell

🇮🇩 secara eksperimental

🇺🇦 експериментально

🇵🇱 eksperymentalnie

🇯🇵 実験的に

🇫🇷 expérimentalement

🇪🇸 experimentalmente

🇹🇷 deneysel olarak

🇰🇷 실험적으로

🇸🇦 تجريبيا

🇨🇿 experimentálně

🇸🇰 experimentálne

🇨🇳 实验性地

🇸🇮 eksperimentalno

🇮🇸 tilraunakennt

🇰🇿 эксперименталды түрде

🇬🇪 ექსპერიმენტულად

🇦🇿 eksperimental olaraq

🇲🇽 experimentalmente

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,850 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.