Empiric (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Derived from experiment and observation rather than theory; "an empirical basis for an ethical theory"; "empirical laws"; "empirical data"; "an empirical treatment of a disease about which little is known".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- An empiric approach was taken by the researchers, collecting data through surveys and focus groups rather than relying on theoretical models.
- The new policy was based on empiric evidence of the effectiveness of similar programs in other countries.
- The empiric formula of a compound is a simplified expression of the molecular structure, providing a concise summary of its composition.
- The doctor prescribed an empiric antibiotic treatment, given the severity of the symptoms and the lack of clear diagnosis.
- The empiric research approach used by the scientists involved making observations and collecting data in a real-world setting.
Synonyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
Relying on medical quackery; "empiric treatment".
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Usages
Examples
- The doctor was criticized for relying on empiric treatments that had no scientific basis, rather than evidence-based medicine.
- The patient was given an empiric course of antibiotics, despite the lack of test results confirming the presence of a bacterial infection.
- The health food store owner recommended an empiric regimen of herbal supplements to cure the customer's chronic fatigue.
- The medical board reprimanded the physician for prescribing empiric treatments that were not supported by clinical trials or scientific research.
- The patient's family was skeptical of the doctor's empiric approach to treating the rare disease, and sought a second opinion from a specialist.