Academic Vocabulary
20 Academic Vocabulary Words with Meanings and Examples
1. Empirical: Based on observation or experiment rather than theory or pure logic.
- Example: The scientist conducted empirical research to study the effects of climate change.
2. Hypothesis: A proposed explanation for a phenomenon that can be tested.
- Example: The researcher formulated a hypothesis about the relationship between diet and heart disease.
3. Methodology: A system of methods used in a particular field of study.
- Example: The article described the methodology used for collecting data on student performance.
4. Parameter: A quantity whose value can be changed to influence the behavior of a system.
- Example: The researchers adjusted the parameters of the experiment to test different conditions.
5. Correlation: A relationship or connection between two or more things.
- Example: The study found a strong correlation between education level and income.
6. Causation: The act of causing something to happen.
- Example: The scientist aimed to prove causation between smoking and lung cancer.
7. Variable: A quantity that can change or vary.
- Example: The independent variable in the experiment was the amount of fertilizer used.
8. Data: Facts and statistics collected together for analysis.
- Example: The data analysis revealed a significant increase in sales during the holiday season.
9. Analysis: The detailed examination of something to understand its nature.
- Example: The professor conducted a thorough analysis of the historical documents.
10. Synthesis: The combining of ideas or elements to form a new whole.
- Example: The essay synthesized different theories to explain the phenomenon.
11. Critique: A detailed analysis and assessment of something.
- Example: The student wrote a critical critique of the novel.
12. Perspective: A particular viewpoint or way of thinking.
- Example: The article presented different perspectives on the issue of immigration.
13. Framework: A basic structure or system.
- Example: The theoretical framework of the study guided the research design.
14. Paradigm: A typical example or model.
- Example: The shift from a Newtonian to a quantum paradigm revolutionized physics.
15. Phenomenon: A fact or occurrence that is observed.
- Example: The researchers studied the natural phenomenon of volcanic eruptions.
16. Theory: A well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world.
- Example: The theory of relativity has been widely accepted by the scientific community.
17. Concept: An abstract idea or general notion.
- Example: The concept of justice has been debated by philosophers for centuries.
18. Methodology: A system of methods used in a particular field of study.
- Example: The article described the methodology used for collecting data on student performance.
19. Context: The circumstances in which something happens.
- Example: It is important to consider the historical context when interpreting the text.
20. Evidence: Facts or information used to prove something.
- Example: The lawyer presented compelling evidence to support the defendant’s case.
