epistemological
/ɪˌpɪs.tə.məˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Relating to epistemology, or the study of knowledge. It describes questions about how we know something, what counts as knowledge, and how knowledge is justified.
- She asked an epistemological question about evidence.
- The paper takes an epistemological approach to science.
- This is more than a fact check; it is an epistemological issue.
Adinary Nuance
Epistemological is more specific than "philosophical". It focuses on knowledge, belief, evidence, and certainty. Writers use it when they want to talk about how we know something, not just what we think about it. It is also more technical than "theoretical" or "intellectual".
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- thuộc nhận thức luận
- Spanish
- epistemológico
- Chinese
- 认识论的
- Japanese
- 認識論の
- Korean
- 인식론의
Etymology
From Greek epistēmē meaning “knowledge” and -logical, from the late 19th century. In English, it is used mainly in philosophy and academic writing.
Common phrases
epistemological questionepistemological issueepistemological frameworkepistemological approach
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is epistemological a common word in daily English?
- No. It is mainly used in academic writing, especially philosophy and social science.
- What is the difference between epistemological and philosophical?
- Philosophical is broader. Epistemological is about knowledge and how we know things.
- How do I use epistemological in a sentence?
- Use it before a noun: "an epistemological problem" or "epistemological questions."
- Is epistemological formal?
- Yes. It sounds formal and academic, not casual.