What is the meaning of empirical?

Empirical refers to knowledge or conclusions that are based on observed and measured phenomena rather than on theory or speculation. When something is described as empirical, it means that it has been tested through experimentation and observation, ensuring that the findings are grounded in real-world evidence. This approach is essential in scientific methods, where hypotheses are verified through practical experiments and data collection.

The other options reflect different approaches to knowledge that do not fit the definition of empirical. For instance, being based on theory and speculation lacks the tangible evidence that empirical findings provide. Similarly, deriving ideas from tradition and authority emphasizes the significance of established norms rather than experiential data. Lastly, dependency on opinion and belief suggests a subjective perspective, which contrasts with the objective nature of empirical research that relies on observable and measurable facts. Thus, the correct answer captures the essence of empirical evidence as fundamentally grounded in real-world experimentation and observation.