observational

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Because this was an observational study, it cannot prove that French fries directly cause diabetes.

From Science Daily • Jun. 3, 2026

Because the research is observational, it can’t prove that ultraprocessed foods cause dementia and cognitive impairment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026

These studies were observational, which differs from research done on drugs to study intended effects.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

The researchers reviewed observational studies, randomized clinical trials, and animal studies focused on repeated weight loss and regain.

From Science Daily • May 17, 2026

It is striking that the observational search for extraterrestrial life began in the same generation as the invention of the telescope, and with the greatest theoretician of the age.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan