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.
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.
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.
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.
A posteriori knowledge is obtained through learning.
I make judgments based on experience.
Means 'by actually trying it out'. Emphasizes learning from practical experience.
I understood by actually doing it.
Means 'from data'. Used when the a posteriori reasoning is specifically based on collected data or statistics.
We derive conclusions from the data.