Meaning of Research


First, we should start from the word ‘research’. Research is made up of two words-"re" and "search". Search is to make known of an existent unknown thing. Therefore, research (search of searched) means to elicit some facts out of a known thing.





What is the Research:

Every letter of the word ‘research’ emphasizes a special and dignified meaning as given below.
R – Rational (way of thinking)
E – Expert/Exhaustive (Treatment)
S – Search (for solution)
E – Exactness
A – Analytical Analysis (of adequate data)
R – Relationship (of facts)
C – Careful (recording)/ critical (observation) / constructive (attitude) / condensed/and 
compactly (stated Generalisation
H – Honesty/Hard work

Research is thus, an original contribution to the existing stock of knowledge making for its 
advancement. It is the pursuit of truth with the help of study observation, comparison and 
experiment. In short, the search for knowledge through objective and systematic method of 
finding solution to a problem in research.

Research is generally oriented towards looking into 5 Ws and 1H of a problem that Who, What, Where, When, Why and How. 



As said by Bernard Baruch, ‘ Millions saw the apple fall, but Newton was the one who asked Why’. It was this Why which lead to the discovery of the Law of Gravitation

In a simple words, Research means a search for facts. It gives answers to questions and solutions to problems.

Research is a continuous and dynamic process.

Research is the systematic collection, analysis and interpretation of data to answer a certain question or solve a problem.

Research refers to a search for knowledge

Research is a journey from known to unknown.

Research starts with a problem. Then it is followed by the collection of data or facts, critical analysis and decision-making based on the actual evidence.


Research is a part and parcel of any systematic knowledge. Research has now become an integral part of not only academic pursuits but of all other areas like Economics, physical science, social science, education, management etc.

Research is the last resort when individuals, organisations and Societies facing problems for which there are no answers or when there is inconsistency among answers.

Thus, research is an original addition to the available knowledge, which contributes to its further advancement. It is an attempt to pursue truth through the methods of study, observation, comparison and experiment.

In sum, research is the search for knowledge, using objective and systematic methods to find solution to a problem.

We can summarize the modern meaning of research in following points-Research is an 

  • attitude of inquiry,
  • an attempt to elicit facts 
  • a systematic and scholarly application of the scientific method.
  • essentially a state of mind – a friendly, welcoming attitude towards change.
You can see here
Definitions of Research by different authors || What is the definition of Research

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