Scientific Methodology Terms

adjective relating to or characterized by the belief that reason and logic are the primary sources of knowledge and truth

• The philosopher's argument was deeply rooted in rationalistic principles.
• She always approaches problems with a rationalistic mindset.
• I don't get all that rationalistic mumbo jumbo.
• His rationalistic approach to life kept him grounded in reality.

adverb an adverb modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb, indicating the manner, place, time, or degree in which something is done

• The first and second place winners were John and Sarah, respectively.
• John and Sarah won first and second place, respectively.
• John and Sarah took home the top two spots, respectively.
• The siblings finished the race in first and second place, respectively, just like always.

noun A person, place, thing, or idea. In this case, 'error' is a noun that refers to a mistake or a fault.

adjective A word that describes or modifies a noun. In this case, 'accidental' is an adjective that describes the type of error as being unintentional or occurring by chance.

• The report contained an accidental error in the calculation of financial figures.
• Oops, I made an accidental error in the spreadsheet.
• I totally goofed up and made an accidental error on the project.
• Her accidental error was like a small pebble causing a big ripple effect in the project.

adjective relating to or based on actualism, the principle that the actual facts and events of the past are the key to understanding the past

• The study of actualistic processes helps us understand past geological events.
• By looking at actualistic data, scientists can make better predictions about the future.
• I'm all about that actualistic life, always looking at real-life examples.
• In a figurative sense, actualistic thinking can be applied to everyday decision-making.