experiment
As a noun: A scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact. As a verb: To perform a scientific experiment.
Experiments are designed to control variables and observe specific outcomes, allowing for cause-and-effect relationships to be identified.
Word relationships
- test: A test can be a simple check; an experiment implies a more formal, controlled procedure to gather data.
- trial: Similar to a test, often implying a preliminary or exploratory attempt.
Word family
- experimental (adjective): Relating to or based on experiment.
- experimenter (noun): A person who conducts experiments.
Collocations
- conduct an experiment
- design an experiment
- controlled experiment
- scientific experiment
Idioms & expressions
- trial and error (a method of experimenting)
Example sentences
- "For the science fair, she designed an experiment to see which type of fertilizer made plants grow tallest." School science fair
- "The researchers decided to experiment with different concentrations of the drug to find the optimal dosage." Research publication
Memory hook
An 'EXPERT' scientist performs an 'EXPERIMENT' to gain 'EXPERIENCE'. EXPERI-ment: try it out
When not to use
While 'experiment' can be used informally (e.g., 'experiment with a new recipe'), in a scientific context, it implies a structured, controlled procedure.
Fun facts
- The scientific method, which relies on experiments, became formalized during the Scientific Revolution in the 17th century.
- The term 'thought experiment' refers to an imaginary experiment used to explore the implications of a theory or principle.
Related words
Explore more words
falsifiable, hypothesis, experimental, scientist, do research, empirical
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