Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

anecdotal evidence

Noun

ˌænɪkˈdoʊtəl ˈɛvɪdəns

Definition

A type of evidence based on personal accounts or individual stories rather than on scientific data or research.

Examples

Many people believe in pseudoscience based on anecdotal evidence rather than proven scientific facts.
Anecdotal evidence from friends and family influenced her decision to try the new diet.
While interesting, anecdotal evidence cannot replace rigorous scientific research.

Meaning

Anecdotal evidence refers to informal observations or reports concerning a specific instance or experience, often used to support a claim or point of view but lacking in systematic investigation or data.