# experimentation

/ɪkˌspɛɹəmənˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /ɛkspˌɛɹɪməntˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/experimentation
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. scientific testing

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

the act of doing scientific tests to learn more about how something works.

For teachers: the practice of conducting controlled tests or observations to validate a hypothesis or investigate causal relationships.

- The new drug is still in the stage of animal experimentation.
- Rigorous experimentation is required to ensure that the results are not merely the product of environmental variables or statistical noise.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general practice of science.

Teaching tip: In academic contexts, emphasize that this implies a structured method rather than just 'trying things out'.

### 2. trying new ideas

noun · CEFR B2

trying different methods, styles, or ideas to see which one you like best.

For teachers: the act of trying out new concepts, techniques, or artistic styles to achieve a novel result.

- After some experimentation in the kitchen, he finally found the perfect recipe for spicy bread.
- The director's early work was marked by bold experimentation with non-linear storytelling and unconventional camera angles.

Teaching tip: This sense is common in arts, cooking, and business to describe a creative or flexible approach.

## Examples

- The chef encourages experimentation with different spices.
- Years of scientific experimentation finally led the team to a breakthrough in renewable energy storage.
- The artist's late period was defined by bold experimentation with digital textures, marking a significant departure from the traditional oil paintings that first established her reputation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.