Inductive: Definition, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：based on observation (inductive)

inductive 🔊

/ɪnˈdʌktɪv/

adj.

A way of thinking or reasoning that moves from specific examples or observations to a broad, general rule or conclusion.

Inductive reasoning illustrated by a scientist's notebook comparing leaf sketches to form a general rule.

based on observation 🔊

➕

/beɪst ɒn ˌɒbzəˈveɪʃən/

adj.

Describes a method of reasoning that involves developing a general theory or principle from specific observed facts or instances.

📁 Category：School Education 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'induct-' (led in), from 'inducere' (to lead in).

💡 Mnemonic

IN-DUCE (to lead) you to a conclusion by gathering specific examples first.

📖 Example

Linguists often use inductive reasoning, studying how verbs are placed in different sentences to figure out the general rules of grammar for a language. 🔊 Linguists often use reasoning based on observation, studying how verbs are placed in different sentences to figure out the general rules of grammar for a language.

🔗 Collocations

inductive reasoning – the logical process of deriving general principles from specific observations

inductive method – a scientific or learning approach that starts with data collection and proceeds to theory formulation

inductive logic – a system of logic that deals with reasoning from the particular to the general

🔄 Synonyms

inferential (adj.) – based on or involving the process of drawing conclusions from evidence and reasoning

a posteriori (adj.) – (Latin origin) derived from observed facts or experience rather than from theory

empirical (adj.) – based on, concerned with, or verifiable by observation or experience rather than theory

🚫 Antonyms

deductive (adj.) – based on reasoning from known general principles to a specific conclusion

a priori (adj.) – (Latin origin) derived from theoretical deduction rather than observation or experience

🌱 Derivatives

inductively (adv.) – in an inductive manner; by using inductive reasoning

induction (n.) – the process of reasoning from specific facts to a general conclusion; also, the process of introducing someone to a new job or organization

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Latin 'inductivus', it entered English in the 16th century, originally meaning "leading to." Its logical sense, central to philosophy and science, was shaped by thinkers like Francis Bacon, who championed inductive reasoning (from specific data to general laws) in the scientific method.