as in empirical
based on observation or experience
her reports on the great apes were based on firsthand observational evidence
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Recent Examples of observational
Over the 80s, 90s, and 00s, those predictions were tested and confirmed, with inflation passing every observational test thus far.
—
Big Think, 14 Oct. 2025
Known for his sharp, observational humor and love of cats, Kaszas currently releases 20-40 minutes of new, original stand-up material on his YouTube channel weekly.
—Matt Grobar, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2025
To change the perspective on studying tea and bone health, researchers in China explored the potential link without leaning on observational data.
—Lauren Manaker Ms, Verywell Health, 10 Oct. 2025
These benefits align with observational studies linking higher pear intake with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
—Daryl Austin, USA Today, 9 Oct. 2025
The observational study also identifies an association, but does not prove that the beverages caused liver issues.
—Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2025
Because this was an observational study and not a randomized trial, researchers caution that more research is needed before healthcare practitioners can safely prescribe GLP-1s to treat psoriasis itself.
—Becky Upham, EverydayHealth.com, 8 Oct. 2025
Some observational reports suggest that birds sing as if dawn has returned when the sunlight comes back, while others show an increase in bird sounds during the darkness—a discrepancy that could come down to some birds being more active at night and others being more active during the day.
—Humberto Basilio, Scientific American, 8 Oct. 2025
Leto gives him a Zen countenance and a wry observational mode to contrast his formidable fight skills.
—David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 7 Oct. 2025
Big Think, 14 Oct. 2025
Known for his sharp, observational humor and love of cats, Kaszas currently releases 20-40 minutes of new, original stand-up material on his YouTube channel weekly.
—Matt Grobar, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2025
To change the perspective on studying tea and bone health, researchers in China explored the potential link without leaning on observational data.
—Lauren Manaker Ms, Verywell Health, 10 Oct. 2025
These benefits align with observational studies linking higher pear intake with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
—Daryl Austin, USA Today, 9 Oct. 2025
The observational study also identifies an association, but does not prove that the beverages caused liver issues.
—Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2025
Because this was an observational study and not a randomized trial, researchers caution that more research is needed before healthcare practitioners can safely prescribe GLP-1s to treat psoriasis itself.
—Becky Upham, EverydayHealth.com, 8 Oct. 2025
Some observational reports suggest that birds sing as if dawn has returned when the sunlight comes back, while others show an increase in bird sounds during the darkness—a discrepancy that could come down to some birds being more active at night and others being more active during the day.
—Humberto Basilio, Scientific American, 8 Oct. 2025
Leto gives him a Zen countenance and a wry observational mode to contrast his formidable fight skills.
—David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 7 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for observational
Adjective
-
As such, the empirical evidence just isn’t there.—
Julia Ries Wexler,
SELF,
14 Oct. 2025
-
In sum, the judges reasoned the antitrust analysis hinges on the production of much more evidence and empirical data than has been presented by either side.—
Michael McCann,
Sportico.com,
1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
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With her King Kylie persona, Jenner showed off more rebellious, edgy and experimental looks, including blue hair.—
Lori A Bashian,
FOXNews.com,
17 Oct. 2025
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Additionally, the mill offers experimental coatings and creative color treatments, resulting in bold and expressive takes on denim.—
Angela Velasquez,
Sourcing Journal,
17 Oct. 2025
Adjective
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Making union registration swift, objective, and transparent would demonstrate genuine respect for the rule of law – and for the workers whose labor drives Cambodia’s growth.—
Sourcing Journal,
Sourcing Journal,
15 Oct. 2025
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Overseeing the district superintendent and treasurer are among the most important roles a school board plays, and this responsibility needs to be taken seriously with objective standards, transparently applied.—
Grace Tucker,
Cincinnati Enquirer,
15 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Observational.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/observational. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.
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