Research Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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research
[rɪˈsəːtʃ ]
Definitions
academic
The systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.
Synonyms
analysis, investigation, study.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| research |
This term is used in academic or scientific contexts when seeking new knowledge or understanding about a subject. It often involves systematic and detailed inquiry.
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| investigation |
Use this term when referring to a thorough and systematic search for facts, often related to legal or criminal cases, but it can also involve scientific and natural phenomena.
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| study |
This is used when referring to the act of learning about a subject, especially through books, courses, or structured education. It can also refer to a detailed examination of a specific subject.
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| analysis |
This word is appropriate when breaking down and examining data, situations, or materials to understand them better or to derive conclusions. It's commonly used in technical, business, or scientific contexts.
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Examples of usage
- It's important to conduct thorough research before drawing any conclusions.
- The research showed promising results in the field of medicine.
- The team spent months conducting research for their project.
academic
To investigate systematically.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| research |
Used when referring to a detailed and systematic study of a subject, often in a scientific or academic field.
|
| investigate |
Appropriate when looking into something specific, typically to find facts or details, often used in legal or detective work, which may carry a more serious connotation.
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| study |
Commonly used in educational or academic contexts when referring to the act of learning or examining something closely over a period of time.
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| explore |
Best used when talking about discovering or looking into something new, often in a more informal or casual context.
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Examples of usage
- They researched the history of the ancient civilization.
- I need to research more about this topic before presenting my findings.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word has roots in the Latin term 'circare', which means 'to run about' or 'to search.'
- In the 16th century, 'research' referred to the act of searching deeply for knowledge.
- The modern concept of research began in the 19th century with methodologies emerging in the scientific community.
Science
- Empirical research relies on observed and experimented data to draw conclusions, forming the backbone of scientific inquiry.
- Peer-reviewed journals are critical for maintaining research integrity, as they validate findings through scrutiny by other experts.
- The scientific method, which includes hypothesis, experimentation, observation, and conclusion, structures most research pursuits.
Pop Culture
- Popular TV shows like 'CSI' and 'Bones' glamorize research by showcasing forensic investigations and how detectives gather evidence.
- The internet has transformed research methods, making information accessible, but also challenging researchers to discern reliable sources.
- Documentaries often rely on thorough research to inform audiences about significant topics, highlighting the importance of factual accuracy.
Education
- Students engage in research projects to develop critical thinking and analytical skills, essential for academic growth.
- Research papers are a common assignment in higher education, promoting skills in writing, synthesis of information, and argumentation.
- Libraries play a vital role in research by providing access to books, academic journals, and databases.
Technology
- With the rise of big data, research increasingly relies on data analysis techniques to extract insights and make informed decisions.
- The development of artificial intelligence is influenced by research that explores machine learning algorithms and human cognition.
- Online surveys and crowdsourcing have become popular methods for collecting data quickly and efficiently.
Origin of 'research'
The word 'research' originated from the Middle French word 'recherchier', meaning 'to seek or search'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century and evolved to refer to systematic inquiry and investigation. Research plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge and understanding in various fields of study.
See also: searchable, searcher, searchers, searching, searchlight.