Falsifiability

How it is used

Ask what possible observation would count against a claim.

Example sentences

1. The theory's falsifiability depends on specifying observations that would contradict it.

   A test must allow the theory to face contrary evidence.

2. The seminar distinguished falsifiability from actually proving a theory false.

   Being open to a test is not the same as failing it.

Common collocations

• criterion of falsifiability
• assess falsifiability

Related terms

• hypothesisA testable statement that predicts a relationship or outcome, which a study then supports or fails to support with evidence.
• evidenceFacts, data or findings that show whether a claim or idea is true or likely to be true.

More terms: Argument and Hedging

• argument
• hedging
• argue
• claim
• suggest
• to some extent
• counterargument
• stance
• it could be argued that
• acknowledge
• arguably
• tentative