evidence-based
UK: ˈev.ɪ.dəns.beɪst | US: ˈev.ə.dəns.beɪst
adj. relying on or derived from factual evidence, especially in making decisions or forming opinions
adj. (of a practice or policy) guided by empirical data and scientific analysis
The term combines "evidence," from Latin evidentia (clearness, proof), derived from evidens ("obvious," from e- "out" + videre "to see"), with "based," the past participle of "base" (from Old French baser, ultimately from Latin basis "foundation"). The compound emerged in the late 20th century, reflecting a shift toward empirical rigor in fields like medicine and policy-making. The logic is straightforward: practices "founded" on visible, verifiable "proof."
The clinic adopted evidence-based guidelines for treating chronic pain.
Critics argue that not all educational reforms are truly evidence-based.
Her research proposal emphasized evidence-based methodologies.
Evidence-based decision-making reduces reliance on anecdotal data.
The hospital’s new protocol is strictly evidence-based.