define research paper synonyms

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Synonyms and antonyms of research paper in English

Research paper.

Word of the Day

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

height above sea level

Keeping up appearances (Talking about how things seem)

Learn more with +Plus

• Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
• Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
• Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
• Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
• English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
• English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
• English–Dutch Dutch–English
• English–French French–English
• English–German German–English
• English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
• English–Italian Italian–English
• English–Japanese Japanese–English
• English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
• English–Polish Polish–English
• English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
• English–Spanish Spanish–English
• English–Swedish Swedish–English
• Dictionary +Plus Word Lists

To add ${headword} to a word list please sign up or log in.

Add ${headword} to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.

bottom_desktop desktop:[300x250]

• Daily Crossword
• Word Puzzle
• Word Finder
• Word of the Day
• Synonym of the Day
• Word of the Year
• Language stories
• All featured
• Gender and sexuality
• All pop culture
• Writing hub
• Grammar essentials
• Commonly confused
• All writing tips
• Pop culture
• Writing tips

Advertisement

noun as in examination, study

Strongest matches

analysis , exploration , inquiry , investigation , probe

Strong matches

delving , experimentation , groundwork , inquest , inquisition , probing , quest , scrutiny

Weak matches

fact-finding , fishing expedition , legwork , R and D

verb as in examine, study

analyze , consult , explore , investigate , probe , scrutinize

experiment , inquire

do tests , look into , look up , play around with , read up on

Discover More

Example sentences.

The duo spent the first year in research and engaging with farmers.

Dan Finn-Foley, head of energy storage at energy research firm Wood Mackenzie Power & Renewables, compared Google’s plan to ordering eggs for breakfast.

Users will give Deep Longevity the right to conduct anonymized research using their data as part of the app’s terms and conditions, Zhavoronkov said.

There’s also the Wilhelm Reich Museum, located at “Orgonon” in Rangeley, Maine, which was previously Reich’s estate—where he conducted questionable orgone research in the later years of his career.

When we started doing research on these topics, we were too focused on political institutions.

Have you tried to access the research that your tax dollars finance, almost all of which is kept behind a paywall?

Have a look at this telling research from Pew on blasphemy and apostasy laws around the world.

And Epstein continues to steer money toward universities to advance scientific research.

The research literature, too, asks these questions, and not without reason.

We also have a growing body of biological research showing that fathers, like mothers, are hard-wired to care for children.

We find by research that smoking was the most general mode of using tobacco in England when first introduced.

This class is composed frequently of persons of considerable learning, research and intelligence.

Speaking from recollection, it appears to be a work of some research; but I cannot say how far it is to be relied on.

Thomas Pope Blount died; an eminent English writer and a man of great learning and research.

That was long before invention became a research department full of engineers.

Related Words

Words related to research are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word research . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

noun as in inspection, examination

• investigation

verb as in put in a specific context

• investigate

verb as in dig into task, action

• leave no stone unturned
• really get into
• turn inside out

verb as in investigate; discover

• bring to light
• come across
• come up with
• search high and low
• turn upside down

Viewing 5 / 43 related words

On this page you'll find 76 synonyms, antonyms, and words related to research, such as: analysis, exploration, inquiry, investigation, probe, and delving.

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

• Master Your Homework
• Do My Homework

Exploring Synonyms in English Research Papers

The use of synonyms in English research papers has become an increasingly common practice, as it can be used to expand the scope and depth of a study. This article explores how synonymic relationships between words may help to enhance the overall quality of written documents by broadening the range and understanding of topics presented within them. The analysis includes both qualitative and quantitative approaches, utilizing a variety of linguistic resources such as dictionaries, corpora data, or other text-based databases for comparison purposes. Additionally, this article outlines potential areas where further research into this topic could benefit from more exploration in order to gain deeper insight into its implications on English writing at large.

I. Introduction to Exploring Synonyms in English Research Papers

Synonyms are an integral part of writing research papers in English, as they allow authors to express their ideas more clearly and precisely while adding color and nuance to the text. This section will provide a brief overview of how synonyms can be used effectively when conducting research in this field.

• Types of Synonym Usage:

There are many different types of synonym usage that should be considered when exploring similar words for use in a paper. These include: repeating key terms; using common or uncommon words related to the topic; combining multiple words together to create new phrases or expressions; substituting single words with opposite meanings.

• Choosing Appropriate Words:

II. Importance of Utilizing Synonyms in Academic Writing

Enhancing Writing Quality Through Synonym Usage

The use of synonyms can help to significantly enhance the quality and clarity of writing in academic contexts. Appropriate selection and usage of words from a rich range of vocabulary allows writers to craft their ideas more accurately, avoiding potential misunderstandings caused by using similar but not equivalent terms within an essay or research paper. It also conveys enthusiasm for language development among students, inspiring them with innovative approaches when communicating thoughts on various topics. Moreover, employing synonymous phrases provides writers with greater flexibility in expressing themselves through their work; instead of relying on the same common words throughout a text they have the opportunity to diversify expressions related to certain concepts being discussed in a research paper similar , enabling authors to give freshness and colourfulness into what is written while maintaining consistency as far as meaning is concerned. To ensure efficient implementation of this practice it is important that every author comprehends how different synonyms relate one another: not only should they possess knowledge about basic definitions but also be able to recognize slight distinctions between homophones or even closely-related meanings which could change drastically the purpose intended in any given context inside an essay or research paper similar. . Additionally, if possible make sure newly selected alternative words fit properly into existing grammar structures used elsewhere elsewhereso that readers experience no disruption whatsoever when following sentences all along its structure

III. Sources for Identifying and Compiling Appropriate Synonym Pairs

The process of identifying and compiling appropriate synonym pairs for research papers can be difficult, but there are a few reliable sources that may prove to be helpful in this task. Here are some suggestions for potential places to begin looking.

• Online Thesaurus Tools:

IV. Strategies for Ensuring the Optimal Use of Synonyms

When writing any type of academic paper, it is important to ensure that the optimal use of synonyms is utilized to add variety and interest for the reader. For this purpose there are several strategies that can be implemented when considering how best to utilize various words with similar meanings.

• Firstly, research should be conducted into words that have related meanings in order to find new possibilities within an existing vocabulary list.

There are many online tools available which provide a comprehensive selection of similar words for each term entered by the researcher – this allows for precise search results which cover even obscure topics or subjects.

• Secondly, consult with peers who have experience in utilizing language effectively; they may know terms from their respective fields which would not ordinarily come up during research on related terms.

Not only will these suggestions improve overall word usage but they could also give added insight on particular aspects surrounding a topic where others may lack knowledge or familiarity.

• Thirdly, different sentence structures can enable a writer to change content without needing extra synonyms.

V. Guidelines to Avoid Misusing or Overusing Synonymy

When writing, synonymy should be used judiciously and thoughtfully to avoid misusing or overusing it in a way that can detract from the clarity of your message.

• Be Careful Not to Repeat Yourself:

Overusing synonyms can result in choppy and redundant sentences where you repeat yourself without adding any additional meaning or context. To maintain coherence and fluency, it’s important to employ some variety within your language but use similar words with caution so as not to disrupt the flow of communication.

• Focus on Precision Rather than Variation:

Maintaining precision is paramount when employing synonymy since nuances in the word choice may change the underlying meaning behind what you are communicating. With this being said, focus more on choosing one word that precisely conveys your intended message rather than multiple synonymous words just for variety sake. If done correctly, research paper similar words will help add credibility and strength when expressing ideas through written text.

VI. Examples of Effective Integration and Application of Antonymous Words within a Research Paper

A well-written research paper should demonstrate the effective integration and application of antonymous words. The use of antonyms can be used to give a greater depth to research ideas or topics, as they allow for comparisons between two opposite yet related concepts. It is important that when using antonyms in this way, the researcher must ensure there are clear distinctions between both terms.

• Contextualization : An example of integrating antonymous words within a research paper is through contextualizing them. This means understanding how each word functions differently depending on the context it is being used in. For instance, if one were discussing morality and ethics within their research paper, contrasting these two terms would provide further clarity on potential conclusions.
• Opposition : Another example of utilizing antonymous words effectively involves constructing oppositional arguments from either side and presenting evidence which supports each point separately. Through examining different viewpoints while simultaneously maintaining neutrality in opinion or suggestion provides readers with objective perspectives into contentious issues explored by researchers.

VII . Conclusion: Benefits Achieved from Incorporating Synonymy into English Writing

Incorporating synonymy into English writing can bring numerous benefits for both students and teachers. For one, it allows writers to more accurately express their intended meaning. By selecting words that are more descriptive or capture a specific nuance of the idea being communicated, readers will be able to comprehend precisely what is meant without confusion. This improvement in clarity makes communication easier and enhances understanding between writers and readers alike.

Furthermore, utilizing an expansive vocabulary when writing increases academic credibility as well as reader engagement by demonstrating the author’s command over the language they are using. Research studies have also suggested that diversifying word choice encourages creativity with language and expands imaginative thinking which leads to higher quality work overall. Moreover, due to technological advancements such as online search engines equipped with research paper similar words features, finding alternatives is now much simpler than ever before making them easily accessible during any stage of the writing process for anyone who desires it! In conclusion, exploring synonyms in English research papers is a powerful tool for improving the accuracy and impact of academic writing. It allows researchers to refine their language choice and communicate more effectively with readers from diverse backgrounds. By emphasizing precise word selection, writers can make sure their ideas are conveyed clearly and accurately. This article has highlighted some key aspects of this important skill that all academics should strive to develop further. With its growing importance in today’s world, it is essential for university faculty members to both understand how synonym use works in practice as well as actively promote effective word selection among students when grading assignments or offering feedback on written work.

• USC Libraries
• Research Guides

Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper

Glossary of research terms.

• Purpose of Guide
• Design Flaws to Avoid
• Independent and Dependent Variables
• Reading Research Effectively
• Narrowing a Topic Idea
• Broadening a Topic Idea
• Extending the Timeliness of a Topic Idea
• Academic Writing Style
• Applying Critical Thinking
• Choosing a Title
• Making an Outline
• Paragraph Development
• Research Process Video Series
• Executive Summary
• The C.A.R.S. Model
• Background Information
• The Research Problem/Question
• Theoretical Framework
• Citation Tracking
• Content Alert Services
• Evaluating Sources
• Primary Sources
• Secondary Sources
• Tiertiary Sources
• Scholarly vs. Popular Publications
• Qualitative Methods
• Quantitative Methods
• Insiderness
• Using Non-Textual Elements
• Limitations of the Study
• Common Grammar Mistakes
• Writing Concisely
• Avoiding Plagiarism
• Footnotes or Endnotes?
• Further Readings
• Generative AI and Writing
• USC Libraries Tutorials and Other Guides
• Bibliography

This glossary is intended to assist you in understanding commonly used terms and concepts when reading, interpreting, and evaluating scholarly research. Also included are common words and phrases defined within the context of how they apply to research in the social and behavioral sciences.

• Acculturation -- refers to the process of adapting to another culture, particularly in reference to blending in with the majority population [e.g., an immigrant adopting American customs]. However, acculturation also implies that both cultures add something to one another, but still remain distinct groups unto themselves.
• Accuracy -- a term used in survey research to refer to the match between the target population and the sample.
• Affective Measures -- procedures or devices used to obtain quantified descriptions of an individual's feelings, emotional states, or dispositions.
• Aggregate -- a total created from smaller units. For instance, the population of a county is an aggregate of the populations of the cities, rural areas, etc. that comprise the county. As a verb, it refers to total data from smaller units into a large unit.
• Anonymity -- a research condition in which no one, including the researcher, knows the identities of research participants.
• Baseline -- a control measurement carried out before an experimental treatment.
• Behaviorism -- school of psychological thought concerned with the observable, tangible, objective facts of behavior, rather than with subjective phenomena such as thoughts, emotions, or impulses. Contemporary behaviorism also emphasizes the study of mental states such as feelings and fantasies to the extent that they can be directly observed and measured.
• Beliefs -- ideas, doctrines, tenets, etc. that are accepted as true on grounds which are not immediately susceptible to rigorous proof.
• Benchmarking -- systematically measuring and comparing the operations and outcomes of organizations, systems, processes, etc., against agreed upon "best-in-class" frames of reference.
• Bias -- a loss of balance and accuracy in the use of research methods. It can appear in research via the sampling frame, random sampling, or non-response. It can also occur at other stages in research, such as while interviewing, in the design of questions, or in the way data are analyzed and presented. Bias means that the research findings will not be representative of, or generalizable to, a wider population.
• Case Study -- the collection and presentation of detailed information about a particular participant or small group, frequently including data derived from the subjects themselves.
• Causal Hypothesis -- a statement hypothesizing that the independent variable affects the dependent variable in some way.
• Causal Relationship -- the relationship established that shows that an independent variable, and nothing else, causes a change in a dependent variable. It also establishes how much of a change is shown in the dependent variable.
• Causality -- the relation between cause and effect.
• Central Tendency -- any way of describing or characterizing typical, average, or common values in some distribution.
• Chi-square Analysis -- a common non-parametric statistical test which compares an expected proportion or ratio to an actual proportion or ratio.
• Claim -- a statement, similar to a hypothesis, which is made in response to the research question and that is affirmed with evidence based on research.
• Classification -- ordering of related phenomena into categories, groups, or systems according to characteristics or attributes.
• Cluster Analysis -- a method of statistical analysis where data that share a common trait are grouped together. The data is collected in a way that allows the data collector to group data according to certain characteristics.
• Cohort Analysis -- group by group analytic treatment of individuals having a statistical factor in common to each group. Group members share a particular characteristic [e.g., born in a given year] or a common experience [e.g., entering a college at a given time].
• Confidentiality -- a research condition in which no one except the researcher(s) knows the identities of the participants in a study. It refers to the treatment of information that a participant has disclosed to the researcher in a relationship of trust and with the expectation that it will not be revealed to others in ways that violate the original consent agreement, unless permission is granted by the participant.
• Confirmability Objectivity -- the findings of the study could be confirmed by another person conducting the same study.
• Construct -- refers to any of the following: something that exists theoretically but is not directly observable; a concept developed [constructed] for describing relations among phenomena or for other research purposes; or, a theoretical definition in which concepts are defined in terms of other concepts. For example, intelligence cannot be directly observed or measured; it is a construct.
• Construct Validity -- seeks an agreement between a theoretical concept and a specific measuring device, such as observation.
• Constructivism -- the idea that reality is socially constructed. It is the view that reality cannot be understood outside of the way humans interact and that the idea that knowledge is constructed, not discovered. Constructivists believe that learning is more active and self-directed than either behaviorism or cognitive theory would postulate.
• Content Analysis -- the systematic, objective, and quantitative description of the manifest or latent content of print or nonprint communications.
• Context Sensitivity -- awareness by a qualitative researcher of factors such as values and beliefs that influence cultural behaviors.
• Control Group -- the group in an experimental design that receives either no treatment or a different treatment from the experimental group. This group can thus be compared to the experimental group.
• Controlled Experiment -- an experimental design with two or more randomly selected groups [an experimental group and control group] in which the researcher controls or introduces the independent variable and measures the dependent variable at least two times [pre- and post-test measurements].
• Correlation -- a common statistical analysis, usually abbreviated as r, that measures the degree of relationship between pairs of interval variables in a sample. The range of correlation is from -1.00 to zero to +1.00. Also, a non-cause and effect relationship between two variables.
• Covariate -- a product of the correlation of two related variables times their standard deviations. Used in true experiments to measure the difference of treatment between them.
• Credibility -- a researcher's ability to demonstrate that the object of a study is accurately identified and described based on the way in which the study was conducted.
• Critical Theory -- an evaluative approach to social science research, associated with Germany's neo-Marxist “Frankfurt School,” that aims to criticize as well as analyze society, opposing the political orthodoxy of modern communism. Its goal is to promote human emancipatory forces and to expose ideas and systems that impede them.
• Data -- factual information [as measurements or statistics] used as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or calculation.
• Data Mining -- the process of analyzing data from different perspectives and summarizing it into useful information, often to discover patterns and/or systematic relationships among variables.
• Data Quality -- this is the degree to which the collected data [results of measurement or observation] meet the standards of quality to be considered valid [trustworthy] and  reliable [dependable].
• Deductive -- a form of reasoning in which conclusions are formulated about particulars from general or universal premises.
• Dependability -- being able to account for changes in the design of the study and the changing conditions surrounding what was studied.
• Dependent Variable -- a variable that varies due, at least in part, to the impact of the independent variable. In other words, its value “depends” on the value of the independent variable. For example, in the variables “gender” and “academic major,” academic major is the dependent variable, meaning that your major cannot determine whether you are male or female, but your gender might indirectly lead you to favor one major over another.
• Deviation -- the distance between the mean and a particular data point in a given distribution.
• Discourse Community -- a community of scholars and researchers in a given field who respond to and communicate to each other through published articles in the community's journals and presentations at conventions. All members of the discourse community adhere to certain conventions for the presentation of their theories and research.
• Discrete Variable -- a variable that is measured solely in whole units, such as, gender and number of siblings.
• Distribution -- the range of values of a particular variable.
• Effect Size -- the amount of change in a dependent variable that can be attributed to manipulations of the independent variable. A large effect size exists when the value of the dependent variable is strongly influenced by the independent variable. It is the mean difference on a variable between experimental and control groups divided by the standard deviation on that variable of the pooled groups or of the control group alone.
• Emancipatory Research -- research is conducted on and with people from marginalized groups or communities. It is led by a researcher or research team who is either an indigenous or external insider; is interpreted within intellectual frameworks of that group; and, is conducted largely for the purpose of empowering members of that community and improving services for them. It also engages members of the community as co-constructors or validators of knowledge.
• Empirical Research -- the process of developing systematized knowledge gained from observations that are formulated to support insights and generalizations about the phenomena being researched.
• Epistemology -- concerns knowledge construction; asks what constitutes knowledge and how knowledge is validated.
• Ethnography -- method to study groups and/or cultures over a period of time. The goal of this type of research is to comprehend the particular group/culture through immersion into the culture or group. Research is completed through various methods but, since the researcher is immersed within the group for an extended period of time, more detailed information is usually collected during the research.
• Expectancy Effect -- any unconscious or conscious cues that convey to the participant in a study how the researcher wants them to respond. Expecting someone to behave in a particular way has been shown to promote the expected behavior. Expectancy effects can be minimized by using standardized interactions with subjects, automated data-gathering methods, and double blind protocols.
• External Validity -- the extent to which the results of a study are generalizable or transferable.
• Factor Analysis -- a statistical test that explores relationships among data. The test explores which variables in a data set are most related to each other. In a carefully constructed survey, for example, factor analysis can yield information on patterns of responses, not simply data on a single response. Larger tendencies may then be interpreted, indicating behavior trends rather than simply responses to specific questions.
• Field Studies -- academic or other investigative studies undertaken in a natural setting, rather than in laboratories, classrooms, or other structured environments.
• Focus Groups -- small, roundtable discussion groups charged with examining specific topics or problems, including possible options or solutions. Focus groups usually consist of 4-12 participants, guided by moderators to keep the discussion flowing and to collect and report the results.
• Framework -- the structure and support that may be used as both the launching point and the on-going guidelines for investigating a research problem.
• Generalizability -- the extent to which research findings and conclusions conducted on a specific study to groups or situations can be applied to the population at large.
• Grey Literature -- research produced by organizations outside of commercial and academic publishing that publish materials, such as, working papers, research reports, and briefing papers.
• Grounded Theory -- practice of developing other theories that emerge from observing a group. Theories are grounded in the group's observable experiences, but researchers add their own insight into why those experiences exist.
• Group Behavior -- behaviors of a group as a whole, as well as the behavior of an individual as influenced by his or her membership in a group.
• Hypothesis -- a tentative explanation based on theory to predict a causal relationship between variables.
• Independent Variable -- the conditions of an experiment that are systematically manipulated by the researcher. A variable that is not impacted by the dependent variable, and that itself impacts the dependent variable. In the earlier example of "gender" and "academic major," (see Dependent Variable) gender is the independent variable.
• Individualism -- a theory or policy having primary regard for the liberty, rights, or independent actions of individuals.
• Inductive -- a form of reasoning in which a generalized conclusion is formulated from particular instances.
• Inductive Analysis -- a form of analysis based on inductive reasoning; a researcher using inductive analysis starts with answers, but formulates questions throughout the research process.
• Insiderness -- a concept in qualitative research that refers to the degree to which a researcher has access to and an understanding of persons, places, or things within a group or community based on being a member of that group or community.
• Internal Consistency -- the extent to which all questions or items assess the same characteristic, skill, or quality.
• Internal Validity -- the rigor with which the study was conducted [e.g., the study's design, the care taken to conduct measurements, and decisions concerning what was and was not measured]. It is also the extent to which the designers of a study have taken into account alternative explanations for any causal relationships they explore. In studies that do not explore causal relationships, only the first of these definitions should be considered when assessing internal validity.
• Life History -- a record of an event/events in a respondent's life told [written down, but increasingly audio or video recorded] by the respondent from his/her own perspective in his/her own words. A life history is different from a "research story" in that it covers a longer time span, perhaps a complete life, or a significant period in a life.
• Margin of Error -- the permittable or acceptable deviation from the target or a specific value. The allowance for slight error or miscalculation or changing circumstances in a study.
• Measurement -- process of obtaining a numerical description of the extent to which persons, organizations, or things possess specified characteristics.
• Meta-Analysis -- an analysis combining the results of several studies that address a set of related hypotheses.
• Methodology -- a theory or analysis of how research does and should proceed.
• Methods -- systematic approaches to the conduct of an operation or process. It includes steps of procedure, application of techniques, systems of reasoning or analysis, and the modes of inquiry employed by a discipline.
• Mixed-Methods -- a research approach that uses two or more methods from both the quantitative and qualitative research categories. It is also referred to as blended methods, combined methods, or methodological triangulation.
• Modeling -- the creation of a physical or computer analogy to understand a particular phenomenon. Modeling helps in estimating the relative magnitude of various factors involved in a phenomenon. A successful model can be shown to account for unexpected behavior that has been observed, to predict certain behaviors, which can then be tested experimentally, and to demonstrate that a given theory cannot account for certain phenomenon.
• Models -- representations of objects, principles, processes, or ideas often used for imitation or emulation.
• Naturalistic Observation -- observation of behaviors and events in natural settings without experimental manipulation or other forms of interference.
• Norm -- the norm in statistics is the average or usual performance. For example, students usually complete their high school graduation requirements when they are 18 years old. Even though some students graduate when they are younger or older, the norm is that any given student will graduate when he or she is 18 years old.
• Null Hypothesis -- the proposition, to be tested statistically, that the experimental intervention has "no effect," meaning that the treatment and control groups will not differ as a result of the intervention. Investigators usually hope that the data will demonstrate some effect from the intervention, thus allowing the investigator to reject the null hypothesis.
• Ontology -- a discipline of philosophy that explores the science of what is, the kinds and structures of objects, properties, events, processes, and relations in every area of reality.
• Panel Study -- a longitudinal study in which a group of individuals is interviewed at intervals over a period of time.
• Participant -- individuals whose physiological and/or behavioral characteristics and responses are the object of study in a research project.
• Peer-Review -- the process in which the author of a book, article, or other type of publication submits his or her work to experts in the field for critical evaluation, usually prior to publication. This is standard procedure in publishing scholarly research.
• Phenomenology -- a qualitative research approach concerned with understanding certain group behaviors from that group's point of view.
• Philosophy -- critical examination of the grounds for fundamental beliefs and analysis of the basic concepts, doctrines, or practices that express such beliefs.
• Phonology -- the study of the ways in which speech sounds form systems and patterns in language.
• Policy -- governing principles that serve as guidelines or rules for decision making and action in a given area.
• Policy Analysis -- systematic study of the nature, rationale, cost, impact, effectiveness, implications, etc., of existing or alternative policies, using the theories and methodologies of relevant social science disciplines.
• Population -- the target group under investigation. The population is the entire set under consideration. Samples are drawn from populations.
• Position Papers -- statements of official or organizational viewpoints, often recommending a particular course of action or response to a situation.
• Positivism -- a doctrine in the philosophy of science, positivism argues that science can only deal with observable entities known directly to experience. The positivist aims to construct general laws, or theories, which express relationships between phenomena. Observation and experiment is used to show whether the phenomena fit the theory.
• Predictive Measurement -- use of tests, inventories, or other measures to determine or estimate future events, conditions, outcomes, or trends.
• Principal Investigator -- the scientist or scholar with primary responsibility for the design and conduct of a research project.
• Probability -- the chance that a phenomenon will occur randomly. As a statistical measure, it is shown as p [the "p" factor].
• Questionnaire -- structured sets of questions on specified subjects that are used to gather information, attitudes, or opinions.
• Random Sampling -- a process used in research to draw a sample of a population strictly by chance, yielding no discernible pattern beyond chance. Random sampling can be accomplished by first numbering the population, then selecting the sample according to a table of random numbers or using a random-number computer generator. The sample is said to be random because there is no regular or discernible pattern or order. Random sample selection is used under the assumption that sufficiently large samples assigned randomly will exhibit a distribution comparable to that of the population from which the sample is drawn. The random assignment of participants increases the probability that differences observed between participant groups are the result of the experimental intervention.
• Reliability -- the degree to which a measure yields consistent results. If the measuring instrument [e.g., survey] is reliable, then administering it to similar groups would yield similar results. Reliability is a prerequisite for validity. An unreliable indicator cannot produce trustworthy results.
• Representative Sample -- sample in which the participants closely match the characteristics of the population, and thus, all segments of the population are represented in the sample. A representative sample allows results to be generalized from the sample to the population.
• Rigor -- degree to which research methods are scrupulously and meticulously carried out in order to recognize important influences occurring in an experimental study.
• Sample -- the population researched in a particular study. Usually, attempts are made to select a "sample population" that is considered representative of groups of people to whom results will be generalized or transferred. In studies that use inferential statistics to analyze results or which are designed to be generalizable, sample size is critical, generally the larger the number in the sample, the higher the likelihood of a representative distribution of the population.
• Sampling Error -- the degree to which the results from the sample deviate from those that would be obtained from the entire population, because of random error in the selection of respondent and the corresponding reduction in reliability.
• Saturation -- a situation in which data analysis begins to reveal repetition and redundancy and when new data tend to confirm existing findings rather than expand upon them.
• Semantics -- the relationship between symbols and meaning in a linguistic system. Also, the cuing system that connects what is written in the text to what is stored in the reader's prior knowledge.
• Social Theories -- theories about the structure, organization, and functioning of human societies.
• Sociolinguistics -- the study of language in society and, more specifically, the study of language varieties, their functions, and their speakers.
• Standard Deviation -- a measure of variation that indicates the typical distance between the scores of a distribution and the mean; it is determined by taking the square root of the average of the squared deviations in a given distribution. It can be used to indicate the proportion of data within certain ranges of scale values when the distribution conforms closely to the normal curve.
• Statistical Analysis -- application of statistical processes and theory to the compilation, presentation, discussion, and interpretation of numerical data.
• Statistical Bias -- characteristics of an experimental or sampling design, or the mathematical treatment of data, that systematically affects the results of a study so as to produce incorrect, unjustified, or inappropriate inferences or conclusions.
• Statistical Significance -- the probability that the difference between the outcomes of the control and experimental group are great enough that it is unlikely due solely to chance. The probability that the null hypothesis can be rejected at a predetermined significance level [0.05 or 0.01].
• Statistical Tests -- researchers use statistical tests to make quantitative decisions about whether a study's data indicate a significant effect from the intervention and allow the researcher to reject the null hypothesis. That is, statistical tests show whether the differences between the outcomes of the control and experimental groups are great enough to be statistically significant. If differences are found to be statistically significant, it means that the probability [likelihood] that these differences occurred solely due to chance is relatively low. Most researchers agree that a significance value of .05 or less [i.e., there is a 95% probability that the differences are real] sufficiently determines significance.
• Subcultures -- ethnic, regional, economic, or social groups exhibiting characteristic patterns of behavior sufficient to distinguish them from the larger society to which they belong.
• Testing -- the act of gathering and processing information about individuals' ability, skill, understanding, or knowledge under controlled conditions.
• Theory -- a general explanation about a specific behavior or set of events that is based on known principles and serves to organize related events in a meaningful way. A theory is not as specific as a hypothesis.
• Treatment -- the stimulus given to a dependent variable.
• Trend Samples -- method of sampling different groups of people at different points in time from the same population.
• Triangulation -- a multi-method or pluralistic approach, using different methods in order to focus on the research topic from different viewpoints and to produce a multi-faceted set of data. Also used to check the validity of findings from any one method.
• Unit of Analysis -- the basic observable entity or phenomenon being analyzed by a study and for which data are collected in the form of variables.
• Validity -- the degree to which a study accurately reflects or assesses the specific concept that the researcher is attempting to measure. A method can be reliable, consistently measuring the same thing, but not valid.
• Variable -- any characteristic or trait that can vary from one person to another [race, gender, academic major] or for one person over time [age, political beliefs].
• Weighted Scores -- scores in which the components are modified by different multipliers to reflect their relative importance.
• White Paper -- an authoritative report that often states the position or philosophy about a social, political, or other subject, or a general explanation of an architecture, framework, or product technology written by a group of researchers. A white paper seeks to contain unbiased information and analysis regarding a business or policy problem that the researchers may be facing.

Elliot, Mark, Fairweather, Ian, Olsen, Wendy Kay, and Pampaka, Maria. A Dictionary of Social Research Methods. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press, 2016; Free Social Science Dictionary. Socialsciencedictionary.com [2008]. Glossary. Institutional Review Board. Colorado College; Glossary of Key Terms. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; Glossary A-Z. Education.com; Glossary of Research Terms. Research Mindedness Virtual Learning Resource. Centre for Human Servive Technology. University of Southampton; Miller, Robert L. and Brewer, John D. The A-Z of Social Research: A Dictionary of Key Social Science Research Concepts London: SAGE, 2003; Jupp, Victor. The SAGE Dictionary of Social and Cultural Research Methods . London: Sage, 2006.

• << Previous: Independent and Dependent Variables
• Next: 1. Choosing a Research Problem >>
• Last Updated: May 30, 2024 9:38 AM
• URL: https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide

• Dictionaries home
• American English
• Collocations
• German-English
• Grammar home
• Practical English Usage
• Learn & Practise Grammar (Beta)
• Word Lists home
• My Word Lists
• Recent additions
• Resources home
• Text Checker

Definition of research noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• scientific/medical/academic research
• They are raising money for cancer research.
• to do/conduct/undertake research
• I've done some research to find out the cheapest way of travelling there.
• research into something He has carried out extensive research into renewable energy sources.
• research on something/somebody Recent research on deaf children has produced some interesting findings about their speech.
• Research on animals has led to some important medical advances.
• according to research According to recent research, more people are going to the movies than ever before.
• Their latest research project will be funded by the government.
• Are you hoping to get a research grant ?
• a research fellow/assistant/scientist
• a research institute/centre/laboratory
• The research findings were published in the Journal of Environmental Quality.
• formulate/​advance a theory/​hypothesis
• build/​construct/​create/​develop a simple/​theoretical/​mathematical model
• develop/​establish/​provide/​use a theoretical/​conceptual framework
• advance/​argue/​develop the thesis that…
• explore an idea/​a concept/​a hypothesis
• make a prediction/​an inference
• base a prediction/​your calculations on something
• investigate/​evaluate/​accept/​challenge/​reject a theory/​hypothesis/​model
• design an experiment/​a questionnaire/​a study/​a test
• do research/​an experiment/​an analysis
• make observations/​measurements/​calculations
• carry out/​conduct/​perform an experiment/​a test/​a longitudinal study/​observations/​clinical trials
• run an experiment/​a simulation/​clinical trials
• repeat an experiment/​a test/​an analysis
• replicate a study/​the results/​the findings
• observe/​study/​examine/​investigate/​assess a pattern/​a process/​a behaviour
• fund/​support the research/​project/​study
• seek/​provide/​get/​secure funding for research
• collect/​gather/​extract data/​information
• yield data/​evidence/​similar findings/​the same results
• analyse/​examine the data/​soil samples/​a specimen
• consider/​compare/​interpret the results/​findings
• fit the data/​model
• confirm/​support/​verify a prediction/​a hypothesis/​the results/​the findings
• prove a conjecture/​hypothesis/​theorem
• draw/​make/​reach the same conclusions
• read/​review the records/​literature
• describe/​report an experiment/​a study
• present/​publish/​summarize the results/​findings
• present/​publish/​read/​review/​cite a paper in a scientific journal
• a debate about the ethics of embryonic stem cell research
• For his PhD he conducted field research in Indonesia.
• Further research is needed.
• Future research will hopefully give us a better understanding of how garlic works in the human body.
• Dr Babcock has conducted extensive research in the area of agricultural production.
• the funding of basic research in biology, chemistry and genetics
• Activists called for a ban on animal research.
• Work is under way to carry out more research on the gene.
• She returned to Jamaica to pursue her research on the African diaspora.
• Bad punctuation can slow down people's reading speeds, according to new research carried out at Bradford University.
• He focused his research on the economics of the interwar era.
• Most research in the field has concentrated on the effects on children.
• One paper based on research conducted at Oxford suggested that the drug may cause brain damage.
• Research demonstrates that women are more likely than men to provide social support to others.
• She's doing research on Czech music between the wars.
• The research does not support these conclusions.
• They are carrying out research into the natural flow patterns of water.
• They lack the resources to do their own research.
• What has their research shown?
• Funding for medical research has been cut quite dramatically.
• a startling piece of historical research
• pioneering research into skin disease
• They were the first to undertake pioneering research into the human genome.
• There is a significant amount of research into the effects of stress on junior doctors.
• He's done a lot of research into the background of this story.
• research which identifies the causes of depression
• spending on military research and development
• the research done in the 1950s that linked smoking with cancer
• The children are taking part in a research project to investigate technology-enabled learning.
• The Lancet published a research paper by the scientist at the centre of the controversy.
• Who is directing the group's research effort?
• She is chief of the clinical research program at McLean Hospital.
• James is a 24-year-old research student from Iowa.
• You will need to describe your research methods.
• Before a job interview, do your research and find out as much as you can about the company.
• Most academic research is carried out in universities.
• This is a piece of research that should be taken very seriously.
• This is an important area of research.
• There's a large body of research linking hypertension directly to impaired brain function.
• In the course of my researches, I came across some of my grandfather's old letters.
• demonstrate something
• find something
• identify something
• programme/​program
• research in
• research into
• research on
• an area of research
• focus your research on something
• somebody’s own research

Definitions on the go

Look up any word in the dictionary offline, anytime, anywhere with the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

Parts of a Book: Quire, Colophon, and...

Parts of a Book: Quire, Colophon, and More

There are a lot of chapters in this collection.

'Whole Milk', 'British English', and 16...

'Whole Milk', 'British English', and 16 More Retronyms

New(er) words for old things

Stationary vs. Stationery

This trick will help you remember which is which

Thesaurus Entries Near paper

Cite this entry.

“Paper.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/paper. Accessed 30 May. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on paper

Nglish: Translation of paper for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of paper for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about paper

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More commonly misspelled words, commonly misspelled words, how to use em dashes (—), en dashes (–) , and hyphens (-), absent letters that are heard anyway, how to use accents and diacritical marks, popular in wordplay, pilfer: how to play and win, 9 superb owl words, 'gaslighting,' 'woke,' 'democracy,' and other top lookups, 10 words for lesser-known games and sports, your favorite band is in the dictionary, games & quizzes.

Synonyms of 'research' in American English

Synonyms of 'research' in british english, additional synonyms.

Browse alphabetically research

• researching
• resemblance
• All ENGLISH synonyms that begin with 'R'

Quick word challenge

Quiz Review

Score: 0 / 5

Wordle Helper

Scrabble Tools

Get science-backed answers as you write with Paperpal's Research feature

Academic Vocabulary: Find the Right Academic Synonyms in One Click with Paperpal

Academic vocabulary refers to the words and phrases used in academic contexts, such as scholarly articles, reports, and lectures/seminars. 1 While general academic words are usually learnt through exposure to academic texts, 2 navigating the world of global scholarly literature and academic discourse necessitates a certain level of proficiency in English. This is because English remains the lingua franca of the global research community, whose main modes of academic outreach are research papers and journal articles.

Unlike fiction and general writing, drafting a research paper in English could present some hurdles for researchers with English as a second language. A global English readership, a niche audience—mainly comprising fellow researchers—and the need for a formal and academic tone are some of the hurdles one may face. Moreover, research papers, across most journals and subject areas, are largely rigid in their vocabulary expectations. Authors, therefore, are limited when it comes to introducing a lot of word choice variations in their papers. Inevitably, this leads to the issue of redundancy and monotony in academic vocabulary and literature.

A thought experiment

Consider the following sentences that establish the importance of a research topic:

• X is fundamental to…
• X is important for…
• X is pivotal to…
• X plays a vital role…
• X plays a critical role…

All the above phrases present the same idea but with different word choices.

Now, imagine having to search for the synonyms of 100 words in a 5,000-word research paper that you are drafting. A dictionary/thesaurus is usually the best place for this task.

At first glance, it seems like a simple task, right?

However, could you be certain that the synonym you chose is preferred in academic writing and literature and that it is widely accepted in the academic English vocabulary? Perhaps, like most researchers, you may diligently search for that specific synonymous word in an academic corpus like Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, etc. And based on the number of hits for that word, you may either choose to use that synonym or search for another one.

Conservatively, assuming it takes about 3 tries (dictionary search + corpus search) to find the right synonym for a given word and each search takes about 5 minutes, it adds up to a ridiculous amount of time and effort spent just finding one set of synonyms to use in a research paper. Now multiply this by 100 and you can immediately see how finding appropriate academic synonyms could be frustrating for already busy researchers.

Making the right choice: Contextual synonyms in Paperpal

Which of the synonyms would you use for “premature” within the academic context in a reproductive biology paper?

Make the mistake of using “inopportune, unseasonable, untimely, incomplete, immature, early on, etc.” and you are certain to get a reviewer comment on word choice!

What then could be a solution?

At Paperpal, we live by the motto of helping every researcher write better. We have therefore integrated a solution for this tedious problem right into our AI-based academic editing tool .

Our contextual academic synonym checker is a proprietary, one-click solution, which is integrated into Paperpal for Word and Paperpal for Web . Upon selecting a word, our sophisticated algorithm retrieves contextually relevant synonyms for that word from a large multidisciplinary corpus of published research papers and ranks them based on frequency and usage. As a researcher, all you need to do is select a word; Paperpal then automatically searches through high-impact articles to see how that word has been used in previously published manuscripts/academic corpus, ranks the results, and presents you with multiple relevant academic word choices for your target word.

Reduce the risks of improper word choice with Paperpal’s contextual synonyms. Try it now!

A general-purpose dictionary lacks information about whether and how a word has been used in broader academic vocabulary and how a word ranks in terms of its popularity in the academic corpus. At Paperpal, we understand this limitation presented by generic dictionaries which is why we designed this contextual synonym checker for researchers, keeping in mind scholarly literature and academic vocabulary.

How does our solution help researchers?

Better word choices confer better academic vocabulary. It obviates the need for future English corrections, especially for errors in academic English vocabulary. Our solution ensures that your choice of synonymous word is tailored to academic literature and allows you to validate its usage based on how it is used in previously published papers.

Say goodbye to multiple tabs; no more unnecessary dictionary searching and no more academic corpus referencing for synonymous words! Selecting the word of your choice…that’s all it should take to improve your academic vocabulary and find the right word choice. So search for academic synonyms for research papers on-the-go with Paperpal. Optimize your academic writing, try Paperpal now!

References:

1. Academic vocabulary. EAP Foundation. Available online at: https://www.eapfoundation.com/vocab/academic/ [Accessed: October 20, 2022].

2. Lawrence, J.F., Knoph, R., McIlraith, A., Kulesz, P.A., and Francis, D.J., 2022. Reading comprehension and academic vocabulary: Exploring relations of item features and reading proficiency.  Reading Research Quarterly ,  57 (2), 669-690. https://ila.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/rrq.434

Paperpal is a comprehensive AI writing toolkit that helps students and researchers achieve 2x the writing in half the time. It leverages 21+ years of STM experience and insights from millions of research articles to provide in-depth academic writing, language editing, and submission readiness support to help you write better, faster.  

Get accurate academic translations, rewriting support, grammar checks, vocabulary suggestions, and generative AI assistance that delivers human precision at machine speed. Try for free or upgrade to Paperpal Prime starting at US$19 a month to access premium features, including consistency, plagiarism, and 30+ submission readiness checks to help you succeed.  

Experience the future of academic writing – Sign up to Paperpal and start writing for free!  

Related Reads:

• Transition Phrases in Academic Writing
• How to Fix Sentence Fragments in Your Writing 
• Into vs. Onto: Do They Confuse You Too?
• Palette vs. Pallet vs. Palate: Understanding the Difference

Understanding the Difference Between To and Too

How to choose and write reasons supporting your peer reviewer recommendations, you may also like, mla works cited page: format, template & examples, how to ace grant writing for research funding..., powerful academic phrases to improve your essay writing , how paperpal’s research feature helps you develop and..., how paperpal is enhancing academic productivity and accelerating..., academic editing: how to self-edit academic text with..., 4 ways paperpal encourages responsible writing with ai, paperpal’s new ai research finder empowers authors to..., how to use ai to enhance your college..., how to use paperpal to generate emails &....

• ABBREVIATIONS
• BIOGRAPHIES
• CALCULATORS
• CONVERSIONS
• DEFINITIONS

  Vocabulary      

What is another word for research paper ?

Synonyms for research paper re·search pa·per, this thesaurus page includes all potential synonyms, words with the same meaning and similar terms for the word research paper ., we couldn't find direct synonyms for the term research paper ., maybe you were looking for one of these terms.

research colloquium , research director , research facility , research lab , research laboratory , research paper , research project , research rocket , research staff , research worker , research-action

... or search for research paper inside other dictionary definitions.

Search inside, are we missing a good synonym for research paper , image credit, the web's largest resource for, synonyms & antonyms, a member of the stands4 network, free, no signup required :, add to chrome, add to firefox, browse synonyms.com, are you a human thesaurus, what is a possible synonym of bad.

• Current Conversations
• Courage & Resilience

Get Your Complimentary Copy of Solito

Available for first-year and transfer students.

All other CU affiliates read or listen through the University Libraries.

 Follow Javier's journey as you read.

Courage and Resilience

In his inspiring memoir, Solito, Javier Zamora tells the story of his migration from El Salvador to the United States at the age of nine. The young child demonstrates astounding courage and resilience as he encounters terrifying dangers and life-threatening conditions. Solito provides an immediate and intimate account not only of a near-impossible journey, but also of the miraculous kindness and love delivered at the most unexpected moments. - Adapted From Penguin Random House

   How might you define Courage? How might you define Resilience?

Scroll through to review some quotes from Solito

One day,you’ll take a trip. Like an adventure.  Javier Zamora, Solito, p.3

¡Two days! I start screaming. Spinning. Jumping up and down. Repeating. “¡I’m going to see my parents! ¡I’m going to see my parents!” Tears running down my cheeks. I don’t care that The Baker’s children look at me. ¡I’m so happy! Finally, the thing I want most is happening. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.36

I see Grandpa...his hand still waving. My face pressed against the back window’s glass. I concentrate on Grandpa’s light-brown hand waving. Grandpa is getting smaller and smaller as the bus rattles forward. He becomes a cloud. A marble. A hand. A fingernail. A white dot. I take a breath in. Adios, I whisper to myself. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.73

Grandpa isn’t here to talk to me before falling asleep, to go out for walks and explore the town, and because of that I feel alone, lonely, solo, solito, solito de verdad. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.74

I hold the boat with both hands. Bump, bump, bump, the waves bigger as the crash against the front. It is hard to hold on… I grab the people next to us. A shirt, pants, anything. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.87

The boats, the soldiers, the walk, the flying fish, the beach, the trucks, the shower, the three minutes. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.133

I realize I’ve never slept on the second floor. ¿What will happen if the earth shakes? ¿If there’s a fire? I don’t ask. I’m embarrassed I said my thoughts out loud. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.137

I close my eyes and pray we cross La Línea as fast as possible, that we jump the fence and rus so fast no one can catch us, especially the bad gringos. I pray my parents are waiting for me right after I jump. I want Mom’s arms, I pray she hugs me, kisses me, and that Dad throws me in the air like I’ve heard he used to do every afternoon when he’d come home from his fishing boat. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.174

They're making me nervous. I don't want to get caught. I don't want bad thoughts. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.204

I whisper for Cadejo and Diosito to help us get to Tucson soon. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.216

This book is for them and for every immigrant who has crossed, who has tried to, who is crossing right now, and who will keep trying. Javier Zamora, Solito, p.381

Featured readings

• Saying Goodbye to Childhood: An Interview with Javier Zamora Zamora reflects on his memoir and goes deeper into why he chose the epigraphs that he did.
• Why I Write: For Other Chepitos Around the World Zamora’s reflection on being undocumented and hoping to encourage fellow undocumented writers.
• Cutting Saguaros Writing helps reshape the neuroplasticity of our minds and with writing, Zamora shares that we “have the power to shape how we remember trauma.”
• Back Draft: Javier Zamora Zamora first wrote portions of the book in third-person as he prepared to face the trauma with the support of therapists and others, he eventually shifted to first person. Learn more about his process.

Featured Poetry

• The Pier of La Herradura
• El Salvador
• How I Learned to Walk
• Second Attempt Crossing
• Seeing Your Mother Again

Featured viewings

Research & Writing: Dig Deeper

Letter to a character

Solito is full of inspiring and courageous characters and individuals. Did you feel particularly moved or inspired by any of them? Consider composing a letter to one of the people portrayed in the text. Draw from the text to give examples of what struck you and how the work has shifted your thinking or impacted you in some way. Consider what questions you’d ask the character if you were able to meet them. Consider what you might like to share with the character.

Javier shows remarkable resilience throughout his journey. He adopts a number of creative coping strategies. Think of a character (from a book, movie, myth etc.) who faces a monumental challenge. What tools and strategies do they use to survive and perhaps even thrive? How does the experience transform them? What about their experience inspires you?

Research El Salvador

Dig deeper into information about Zamora's home country El Salvador to consider how the country's history and culture impacted Zamora, his family, and other Salvadorians.

What can you learn about the El Salvadoran civil war?

What factors influenced El Salvadoran migration to the United States?

Try searching the University Libraries One Search or begin with some research starters below.

Research Starter: El Salvador

CIA Factbook: El Salvador

Encyclopedia of Latin American History and Culture: El Salvador

World Bank El Salvador

World Bank Photos

Research Starter: Salvadoran Civil War

Research Starter: Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front

El Salvador commemorates 25 years of peace

Truth Commission: El Salvador

When we were young there was a war

Finding Meaning: Courage & Resilience

Free write how you would define the concept of Courage.

Next, brainstorm as many synonyms of courage as you are able.

Free write how you would define the concept of Resilience.

Next, brainstorm as many synonyms of resilience as you are able.

Now, explore the history, etymology, of each term by searching the Oxford English Dictionary.

Go to the fact sheet tab and navigate to etymology; navigate to frequency:

• What is the earliest known use?
• What language is it derived from?
• What do you notice about the frequency of use?

Learn more about reading an OED record (2:05-8:16).

Historical thesaurus: Courage

Historical thesaurus: Resilience

Scholarly investigations

Explore some databases for Psychology and Sociology. What kinds of questions are scholars asking about the term courage? What kinds of questions are scholars asking about the term resilience? If you were to write a research paper on one of these concepts, what might your research question be? What sub-topic or refined focus of this large concept peaks your curiosity the most? Consider searching with some of the synonyms you discovered in the previous activity as well?

Sociology Collection

Scholarly and Popular Sources

Scholarly sources are typically written by experts in a field or area of study. The intended audience is other experts, scholars, and researchers. These works are characterized by specific formats, language, and structures. Popular sources may cover similar topics but tend to be targeted to a broader audience. In this activity, you will compare and contrast sample academic and sample popular sources, in order to consider when it might be appropriate to use a scholarly source rather than a popular source, and vice versa.

Explore this pair of articles. The popular source references the scholarly source. Do you think the authors accurately summarize the content? What do you notice is different about the two sources (style, tone, citation practices, structure, readability, etc.)? What do you notice about the authors?

Popular source: Four Ways Social Support Makes You More Resilient

Scholarly source: Varieties of Resilience in MIDUS

Popular source: Courage for Students

Scholarly source: Distinctions between general and personal courage

• University of Colorado Boulder Libraries
• Research Guides
• Research Strategies
• Last Updated: May 29, 2024 9:28 AM
• URL: https://libguides.colorado.edu/courage
• © Regents of the University of Colorado