Based on Observation and Experience: Empirical refers to something that is based on, derived from, or guided by direct observation, experiment, or experience, rather than solely on abstract principles or theory. 【1】【2】
Relying on Practical Evidence: Empirical knowledge, research, or evidence relies on practical, observable facts and data obtained through direct experience or experimentation, rather than solely on conceptual reasoning. 【3】【4】
Grounded in Sensory Experience: Empirical evidence is constituted by or accessible to human senses and direct experience, as opposed to being based purely on logical deduction or speculation. 【4】【5】
Emphasizing Practical Application: The empirical approach emphasizes the practical application and testing of ideas, theories, or hypotheses through observation, measurement, and experiment, rather than relying solely on theoretical models. 【1】【6】
Contrasted with Purely Theoretical: Empirical is often contrasted with approaches that are solely theoretical, abstract, or based on speculation without sufficient grounding in practical experience or experimentation. 【1】【7】
In summary, “empirical” refers to something that is based on, derived from, or reliant on direct observation, experimentation, and practical experience, rather than being based solely on abstract principles, ideas, or theories. It emphasizes a grounding in sensory evidence and the practical application of knowledge. 【8】
[1] Empirical Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
[2] Empirically Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
[3] EMPIRICAL Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com
[4] Empirical evidence - Wikipedia
[5] empirical adjective - Definition, pictures, pronunciation and usage …
[6] Empirical - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms - Vocabulary.com
[7] EMPIRICAL definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary
[8] Empirical Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary