Definition

Noun: 1. The results of an investigation or research: The information, data, or conclusions discovered as a result of a systematic inquiry, study, or experiment. 2. A small tool or supply used in making something: (Less common) A small item or tool, especially one used by a craftsperson.

Usage

• The primary and most common use of "findings" refers to the results or conclusions from research, an investigation, or a study. It is almost always used in the plural form.
• The secondary, less common use refers to small components or tools used in crafts like jewelry-making or shoemaking. This usage is specialized and industry-specific.

Examples

• Noun (Results of research):
  • The committee will publish its findings next month.
  • The scientist's findings were published in a prestigious journal.
  • The survey findings revealed a shift in public opinion.
• Noun (Craft components):
  • The jeweler ordered clasps, jump rings, and other findings for her new collection.
  • Traditional shoemaking requires specific findings like eyelets and laces.

Advanced Usage

• "Preliminary findings": Initial results from a study that are not yet final or complete.
  • The team presented its preliminary findings at the conference.
• "Key findings": The most important or significant results from research.
  • The report's executive summary highlights the key findings.

Variants and Related Words

• Finding (singular noun): A single conclusion or item discovered. Often used in legal contexts (e.g., "a finding of fact").
• Data (noun): Raw facts and statistics collected for analysis.
• Results (noun): The outcomes or consequences of an action or process; a close synonym for the primary meaning of "findings".
• Conclusions (noun): Judgments or decisions reached by reasoning; often the final part of research findings.

Synonyms

• Results
• Conclusions
• Discoveries
• Outcomes
• Data (when referring to collected information)

Related Phrases

• To report one's findings: To formally present or publish the results of an investigation.
  • The auditor is required to report her findings to the board.
• Based on the findings: Using the research results as a foundation for a decision or action.
  • The policy was changed based on the findings of the review.

Noun

1. a collection of tools and other articles used by an artisan to make jewelry or clothing or shoes