Definition

Noun: A small-scale, initial experiment conducted to test the feasibility, design, methods, or potential outcomes of a larger, more comprehensive study. Its primary purpose is to identify and resolve problems before committing significant resources to the main experiment.

Usage

The term "pilot experiment" is used in scientific, academic, and market research contexts. It describes a trial run that helps researchers refine their hypotheses, procedures, and measurement tools. The results are not typically used to draw definitive conclusions but to inform the design of the subsequent, more extensive experiment.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The research team conducted a pilot experiment with 20 participants to test their new survey questions.
  • Before launching the full clinical trial, a pilot experiment is essential to check for any unforeseen side effects.
  • The pilot experiment revealed flaws in the data collection process, saving the project considerable time and money.

Advanced Usage

• "to serve as a pilot experiment": to function as a preliminary test.
  • This small focus group will serve as a pilot experiment for the larger national study.

Variants and Related Words

• Pilot study (n): A synonym often used interchangeably with "pilot experiment," though "study" can imply a broader range of preliminary research activities beyond a single experiment.
• Feasibility study (n): A related investigation to determine if a project is practical, which may include a pilot experiment.
• Trial run (n): A general term for testing a process.

Synonyms

• Preliminary experiment
• Exploratory study
• Test run

Related Phrases

• Run a pilot: To conduct a pilot experiment.
  • We need to run a pilot before finalizing the protocol.

Noun

1. a preliminary experiment whose outcome can lead to a more extensive experiment