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Research Phrases

A Translation of common Scientific Research Phrases

This list of phrases and their translations (definitions) might help you understand the mysterious language of science in general and medicine / biology specifically. These special phrases are also applicable to anyone working on a Ph.D. dissertation, academic paper or journal article at a university anywhere on earth.

 

Research Phrases Translation / Meaning
It has long been known ... I didn't look up the original reference.
A definite trend is evident ... These data are practically meaningless.
Of great theoretical and practical importance ... Interesting to me.
While it has not been possible to provide definite answers to these questions ... An unsuccessful experiment, but I still hope to get it published.
Three of the samples were chosen for detailed study ... The results of the others didn't make any sense.
Typical results are shown ... This is the prettiest graph.
These results will be shown in a subsequent report... I might get around to this sometime, if I'm pushed / funded.
The most reliable results are those obtained by Jones ... He was my graduate assistant.
It is believed that... I think.
It is generally believed that ... A couple of other people think so, too.
It is clear that much additional work will be required before a complete understanding of the phenomenon occurs ... I don't understand it.
Correct within an order of magnitude ... Wrong.
In my experience ... Once.
In case after case ... Twice.
In a series of cases ... Thrice.
According to statistical analysis. Rumor has it.
A statistically oriented projection of the significance of these findings. A wild guess.
Thanks are due to Joe Blotz for assistance with the experiment and to George Frink for valuable discussions ... Blotz did the work and Frink explained to me what it meant.
A careful analysis of obtainable data... Three pages of notes were obliterated when I knocked over a glass of wine.
It is hoped that this study will stimulate further investigation in this field ... I quit.
[Source: unknown]

Different Terms / Categories for different Types of Writing

 

 

 

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