Anecdotal – Definition & Meaning

Anecdotal is a word that is commonly used in everyday language. It refers to stories or accounts that are based on personal experiences or observations. These stories are often used to illustrate a point or to provide evidence for an argument. In this article, we will explore the meaning and origins of the word anecdotal, its associations, synonyms, and antonyms, as well as provide example sentences to help clarify its usage.

Definitions

The word anecdotal is an adjective that describes something that is based on personal accounts or observations rather than on scientific evidence. Anecdotal evidence is often used to support a claim or argument, but it is not considered to be a reliable source of information.

Origin

The word anecdotal comes from the French word “anecdote,” which means a short, amusing or interesting story about a real incident or person. The French word is derived from the Greek word “anekdota,” which means unpublished or secret history. The word was first used in English in the early 18th century.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, anecdotal means “based on personal accounts rather than facts or research.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “based on or consisting of reports or observations of usually unscientific observers.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “based on personal accounts rather than facts or research.”

Associations

Anecdotal evidence is often used in journalism, politics, and advertising to support claims or arguments. It is also frequently used in medical research, where it is considered to be a less reliable source of information than scientific studies.

Synonyms

Some synonyms for anecdotal include: personal, subjective, unscientific, hearsay, and informal.

Antonyms

Antonyms for anecdotal include: scientific, objective, empirical, and verifiable.

The same root words

Words that share the same root as anecdotal include: anecdote, anecdotist, and anecdotage.

Example Sentences

1. The politician’s argument was based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific studies.
2. The doctor warned against relying on anecdotal evidence when making medical decisions.
3. The journalist used anecdotal stories to illustrate the impact of the policy on people’s lives.
4. The researcher cautioned that anecdotal evidence should be considered with caution.
5. The advertising campaign relied heavily on anecdotal stories from satisfied customers.