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Definition research in British English

research noun

[uncountable] noun
/rɪˈsɜː(r)tʃ/

▪ carry out, conduct, do, pursue, undertake

Research is an uncountable noun, and so:

▪ it is hardly ever used in the plural

▪ it never comes after a or a number

✗ Her latest work confirms the findings of earlier researches.

✓ Her latest work confirms the findings of earlier research.

✗ According to one recent research, women’s earnings are still 27% lower than men’s.

✓ According to recent research, women’s earnings are still 27% lower than men’s.

Q: What should I say if I want to refer to one particular study or to several studies of this type?

A: You can say: a study, several studies, some research, a piece of research, or a programme of research:

Her latest work confirms the findings of earlier studies.

According to one study, women’s earnings are still 27% lower than men’s.

a detailed programme of research on the economics of nuclear energy

Example

Recent research shows that babies in the womb can be influenced by music.

Example

She teaches a lot of classes and doesn't have much time for her own research.

Example

medical/historical/linguistic research

Example

research into the causes of schizophrenia

Example

There is clearly a need for further research on this topic.

Example

Government scientists have carried out extensive research into the effects of these drugs.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

relating to or involved in research

Example

a research project/programme

Example

a research team/student

Synonyms and related words
Definition research in British English