Words / C1

an-ik-DOHTL/ˌænɪkˈdəʊtl/

Anecdotal evidence comes from stories, not a systematic study: anecdotal reports, purely anecdotal. An anecdote is one story (already in the dictionary). Empirical and statistical are the usual contrasts. Anecdotal is not the same as false — it is just weak as proof.

Meaning

Based on personal stories rather than systematic evidence.

Examples

• “The claim is only anecdotal, not supported by a study.”
• “We have only anecdotal feedback from three parents.”
• “Anecdotal success stories should not replace a trial.”

Good to know

anecdotal evidence/reports. One story: anecdote. Stronger: empirical / a study.

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