empiricism — the theory that all knowledge is derived from sense-experience
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the theory that all knowledge is derived from sense-experience
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪmˈpɪrɪsɪzəm/
Example Sentences
- The detective's empiricism led him to trust only what he could see and touch at the crime scene.
- My grandmother's cooking empiricism: 'Forget the recipe, taste and adjust until it's perfect!'
- The professor argued that empiricism revolutionized science by emphasizing observation over speculation.
empiricism
NOUN[/ɪmˈpɪrɪsɪzəm/]
the theory that all knowledge is derived from sense-experience
The scientist trusts empiricism, believing only what her experiments actually reveal.
Empiricism depends on observation, experiment, and evidence.
Empiricism encouraged realism, even during the age of imperialism.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Greek 'empeireia' meaning 'experience' or 'experiment,' derived from 'en' (in) + 'peira' (trial/experience). The suffix '-ism' denotes a philosophical theory or system of belief.
Breakdown
empir- (from Greek empeireia, experience) + -ic (adjective-forming suffix) + -ism (noun-forming suffix denoting a doctrine) = empiricism
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The detective's empiricism led him to trust only what he could see and touch at the crime scene.”
“My grandmother's cooking empiricism: 'Forget the recipe, taste and adjust until it's perfect!'”
“The professor argued that empiricism revolutionized science by emphasizing observation over speculation.”
“Thanks to empiricism, we now know that 'because I said so' is not valid scientific evidence.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.