empiricism
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
The idea that knowledge comes mainly from sensory experience and observation rather than reasoning alone.
Synonyms and antonyms
Antonyms
rationalism
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "_____ pushed early scientists to test their ideas through experiment rather than argument alone."
Answer: empiricism
In your own words, what does "empiricism" mean?
The idea that knowledge comes mainly from sensory experience and observation rather than reasoning alone.
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