What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
empirical
Example
The study was based on empirical evidence gathered from surveys. [empirical: adjective]
Example
Empirical research is essential for understanding the natural world. [empirical: noun]
experimental
Example
The experimental group received the treatment while the control group did not. [experimental: adjective]
Example
The scientist conducted an experiment to test the hypothesis. [experiment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Empirical is more commonly used than experimental in everyday language. Empirical is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while experimental is more technical and specific to scientific research.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between empirical and experimental?
Experimental is typically associated with a more formal and technical tone, while empirical can be used in both formal and informal contexts.