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Question

Difficulty: MediumWord Precision and Clarity

Read the passage below. Which word most precisely and clearly completes the sentence to maintain the formal, academic register of the passage?

Answer:In the seventeenth century, natural philosophers began to reject speculative theories of the physical world in favor of systematic experimentation. By prioritizing 【empirical】 evidence over traditional dogma, these early scientists established the foundations of modern scientific inquiry.

Answer

empirical
The word 'empirical' is the most precise and stylistically appropriate term because it specifically describes evidence or knowledge gained through direct observation or scientific experimentation, contrasting with the 'speculative theories' mentioned earlier in the passage.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence containing the blank to determine the required meaning and tone.
The sentence discusses early scientists prioritizing a specific type of evidence gained from systematic experimentation over speculative theories and dogma.
This establishes that the correct word must describe evidence derived from direct observation or experiment in a formal, academic tone.
2
Identify the word that most precisely fits the context of scientific observation.
The word 'empirical' specifically refers to knowledge or evidence derived from observation or experiment, which perfectly fits the transition from speculative philosophy to modern science.
Choosing 'empirical' provides the precise terminology and maintains the formal register of the passage.

Key Concept

Selecting the most precise and contextually appropriate word to maintain the passage's register and clearly convey the intended meaning.
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Topics

Word Precision and Clarity

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