grounded theory

Pronunciation

Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

A research method that builds a theory directly from patterns found in collected data, rather than testing a theory decided in advance.

"Instead of starting with a hypothesis, the researcher used grounded theory to let patterns emerge from the interviews themselves."

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "Instead of starting with a hypothesis, the researcher used _____ to let patterns emerge from the interviews themselves."

Answer: grounded theory

In your own words, what does "grounded theory" mean?

A research method that builds a theory directly from patterns found in collected data, rather than testing a theory decided in advance.