Vocabulary for discussing scientific research, experimentation, ethics, and technological advancement.
empirical
Based on observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic.
Band 7+ example
“Public policy should be informed by empirical evidence rather than ideological assumptions.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
We need empirical to prove this idea.
The hypothesis lacks sufficient empirical support to justify large-scale implementation.
hypothesis
A proposed explanation for a phenomenon, used as a starting point for further investigation.
Band 7+ example
“The researchers formulated a hypothesis based on preliminary observations and designed an experiment to test it rigorously.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
The hypothesis of the study was proved.
The findings of the study lend support to the original hypothesis.
peer-reviewed
Evaluated by experts in the same field before publication, ensuring quality and credibility.
Band 7+ example
“Peer-reviewed research provides a more reliable basis for policy decisions than anecdotal evidence or media reports.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
The research is good because it is peer-reviewed.
Findings published in peer-reviewed journals undergo rigorous scrutiny by independent experts in the field.
breakthrough
A sudden, dramatic, and important discovery or development.
Band 7+ example
“Recent breakthroughs in gene-editing technology have opened new avenues for treating previously incurable genetic disorders.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
There was a breakthrough in science that helped people.
This breakthrough in renewable energy storage could accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels.
correlation
A mutual relationship or connection between two or more things, not necessarily implying causation.
Band 7+ example
“Although a strong correlation exists between poverty and poor health outcomes, establishing direct causation requires further research.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
There is a correlation that smoking causes cancer.
A correlation between two variables does not necessarily imply a causal relationship.
ethical
Relating to moral principles or the branch of knowledge dealing with these.
Band 7+ example
“The ethical implications of human cloning have sparked intense debate among scientists, philosophers, and policymakers.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
Cloning animals is not ethical for many people.
Advances in biotechnology raise profound ethical questions about the limits of scientific intervention.
methodology
A system of methods used in a particular area of study or activity.
Band 7+ example
“The validity of the study's conclusions depends heavily on the rigour and transparency of its research methodology.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
The methodology of the research is important.
A robust methodology ensures that research findings are replicable and generalisable across different contexts.
paradigm
A typical example or pattern of something; a worldview or framework underlying theories in a field of science.
Band 7+ example
“The shift from a fossil-fuel-based to a renewable energy paradigm requires fundamental changes in infrastructure and policy.”
Common collocations
Common mistake
There is a paradigm change in how people think.
A paradigm shift in educational philosophy has moved the emphasis from rote learning to critical thinking.
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