observational

[ ob-zur-vey-shuh-nl ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or founded on observation, especially founded on observation rather than experiment.

Other Words From

• obser·vation·al·ly adverb
• nonob·ser·vation·al adjective
• preob·ser·vation·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of observational¹

First recorded in 1825–35; observation + -al ¹

Example Sentences

Even if they did the research linking cannabis use in pregnancy to child outcomes is observational in nature — meaning it’s not possible to determine a direct casual relationship.

From Salon

It’s not surprising that McQueen describes his motivation as that of “observational curiosity.”

From Los Angeles Times

Now he delivers authentic, unfiltered comedy that fuses his Greek American roots with sharp observational banter.

From Los Angeles Times

The study’s results, which are buttressed by those of an earlier observational study in Norway, are not widely known.

From Los Angeles Times

An observational study found drinking one cup of regular coffee was linked to a reduction in weight that is gained over four years, but by a very small amount: an average of 0.12kg.

From Salon

Related Words

• experimental
• factual