Translation guide
The English phrase 'a posteriori' refers to knowledge or reasoning derived from experience or empirical evidence, as opposed to pure logic. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific philosophical terms, but in everyday language, related ideas are conveyed with common phrases.
To express the concept of 'a posteriori' in formal, academic, or philosophical contexts, referring to knowledge that comes from experience or observation.
To express the idea that something is known or decided based on actual experience or observation, rather than theory, in casual or non-technical contexts.
Means 'based on experience'. This is the most natural way to convey the a posteriori concept in everyday Japanese.
経験に基づいて判断する。
I make judgments based on experience.
Do not attempt to translate 'a posteriori' word-for-word into Japanese outside of philosophical contexts. The phrase is not used in everyday speech, and a direct translation would be confusing. Use the suggested phrases that match the intended meaning.
The direct loanword from Latin, used in philosophical discourse. It is the standard term in academic writing.
アポステリオリな知識は経験に基づく。
A posteriori knowledge is based on experience.
Means 'empirical' or 'experiential'. Often used as an adjective to describe knowledge or methods that are a posteriori.
経験的な証拠が必要だ。
Empirical evidence is necessary.
Literally 'acquired' or 'postnatal', but in philosophy it can mean 'a posteriori' as opposed to innate or a priori. Less common than アポステリオリ.
後天的知識は学習によって得られる。
A posteriori knowledge is obtained through learning.
Means 'by actually trying it out'. Emphasizes learning from practical experience.
実際にやってみてわかった。
I understood by actually doing it.
Means 'from data'. Used when the a posteriori reasoning is specifically based on collected data or statistics.
データから結論を導き出す。
We derive conclusions from the data.