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Glite Dictionary
anecdotalism

anecdotalism

9.5
A habit of using single stories instead of careful research
  • noun
  • /ˌænɪkˈdoʊtəlɪzəm/
  • Formal
translation icon : anecdotalismo
  • Critics accused the report of anecdotalism rather than providing robust statistical evidence.

Examples

  • His argument was based on anecdotalism rather than solid evidence.

  • The book's anecdotalism made it entertaining but sometimes lacked deeper analysis.

  • A focus on anecdotalism can overshadow the importance of scientifically gathered data.

  • Many critics argue that anecdotalism undermines scientific research.

  • Many critics argue that anecdotalism undermines scientific research by prioritizing personal stories over data.

  • Critics accused the report of anecdotalism because it relied on personal experiences instead of comprehensive evidence.

  • A focus on anecdotalism in discussions often leads to misinformed conclusions that ignore systematic research.

Antonyms

methodological analysis
  • Formal
7.8

A careful look at the ways people study a subject

How Reliable

scientific research
  • Specialized
32 3.4
anecdotalism
  • Formal
9.5
guesswork
20 4.2

Surface Forms

anecdotalism singular
anecdotalisms plural

Morphology

anecdotalism = anecdotal (transparent) = anecdote + al + ism

The word is transparently formed from the adjective 'anecdotal' plus the noun-forming suffix '-ism', indicating a tendency or practice based on anecdotes.

Etymology

The word anecdotalism comes from anecdote ('short personal story') and the ending -ism ('practice or tendency'), so it describes the habit of using small stories to support a claim. That's why anecdotalism means relying on personal tales instead of careful, broad evidence.