as in reasonable
formal
relating to what can be known by observation rather than through an understanding of how certain things work
an a posteriori explanation
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of a posteriori
This a posteriori saga gives us a refreshed Raphael, whose psychological acuity feels newly approachable.
—
Roberta Smith, New York Times, 26 Nov. 2020
Roberta Smith, New York Times, 26 Nov. 2020
Recent Examples of Synonyms for a posteriori
Adjective
-
Allow reasonable discipline in school.—
Matthew Stolle,
Twin Cities,
23 May 2026
-
If reasonable, open windows and turn off air conditioning at night to let cooler air in, then shut the windows and shades in the morning to trap the cool air inside, Trane recommends.—
Greta Cross,
USA Today,
23 May 2026
Adjective
-
This sort of a priori justification for ESAs explains a few things.—
Chandler Fritz,
Harpers Magazine,
20 Aug. 2025
-
These new loops manufacture demand, legitimacy, and cultural weight—not because of what the content says, but because of how it was engineered a priori.—
Emil Steiner,
Forbes.com,
14 Aug. 2025
Adjective
-
But there was much more good than bad for Cole, whose velocity, efficiency and fortitude all stood out.—
Peter Sblendorio,
New York Daily News,
23 May 2026
-
There are other commendations that could be thrown on, like how this might be McCartney’s best album of the 21st century.—
Chris Willman,
Variety,
23 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“A posteriori.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/a%20posteriori. Accessed 24 May. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
