Observational
ˌɒbzərˈveɪʃənəl
Definitions
Relating to or characterized by observation.
ˌɒbzərˈveɪʃənəl
Relating to or based on observation.
The study used observational methods to collect data.
💡 Simply: When something is observational, it means you're learning or getting information by watching or looking at something carefully. Like when you watch a bird build a nest, that's observational.
👶 For kids: If something is observational, it means you're watching and learning!
More Examples
His observational skills were exceptional, allowing him to identify subtle patterns.
Observational evidence supported the theory.
How It's Used
"Observational data is crucial in scientific research, especially in fields like astronomy and ecology."
"Observational studies are used to understand human behavior."
"Observational drawing emphasizes the accurate depiction of a subject."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
From Latin *observare* ('to watch, observe') + -ational, indicating relating to or characterized by observation.
The term gained prominence in the 19th and 20th centuries with the rise of scientific methodology and empirical research.
Memory tip
Think of a scientist carefully OBSERVING something to gather data. It's OBSERVATIONAL research.
Word Origin
"to watch, observe (from *observare*)"