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Meaning & use

scientific

adjective·Academic

Last updated

UK/ˌsaɪ.ənˈtɪf.ɪk/
US/ˌsaɪ.ənˈtɪf.ɪk/

Meanings

  1. adjectivebefore a noun

    Based on or using the careful methods and rules of science.

    Grammar: Usually before a noun: scientific evidence. Can also follow a linking verb: The study is scientific.

    Patterns

    • scientific evidence
    • scientific method
    • scientific research
    • scientific study

    The theory is supported by scientific evidence from many experiments.

    They used a scientific method to test the new drug.

    Scientific research takes years of careful work.

  2. adjectivebefore a noun

    Relating to science or the work of scientists.

    Grammar: Used before a noun to describe things connected with science: scientific equipment, scientific journal.

    Patterns

    • scientific equipment
    • scientific journal
    • scientific community

    The lab bought new scientific equipment for the students.

    She published her findings in a scientific journal.

    The scientific community welcomed the discovery.

Common combinations

scientific evidence
There is no scientific evidence that the product works.
scientific method
Students learn the scientific method in their first year.
scientific research
Scientific research often requires government funding.
scientific study
A scientific study linked the two factors.
scientific community
The scientific community agreed on the data.

Synonyms and how they differ

empirical
Based on observation or experience rather than theory; scientific is broader and includes methods and principles.
systematic
Means done in a careful, organized way; scientific implies using science specifically.

Opposites

unscientificpseudoscientific

Word family

science noun
The study of the natural world through observation and experiment.
scientist noun
A person who works in science.
scientifically adverb
In a scientific way.

Commonly confused: scientific or scientifical?

scientific vs scientifical

Not a real word; the correct adjective is scientific.

Practice

The claim that chocolate cures colds lacks ______ evidence.

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