Based on an experiment; carried out on a trial basis or as a test in order to test a hypothesis or gain new knowledge.
example
Das neue Medikament befindet sich noch in der experimentellen Erprobungsphase.
The new medication is still in the experimental testing phase.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'experimentell' (experimental) belongs to the word family of 'das Experiment' (experiment, noun) and 'experimentieren' (to experiment, verb). All the words relate to the idea of a trial or test.
EXAMPLE
Wissenschaftler experimentieren, um neue Theorien zu prüfen.
Scientists experiment in order to test new theories.
Adverbial use
Like many adjectives, 'experimentell' (experimental) can also be used as an adverb to describe a verb. The form of the word does not change.
EXAMPLE
Die Hypothese wurde experimentell bestätigt.
The hypothesis was confirmed experimentally.
Typical collocations
In a scientific context, 'experimentell' (experimental) is often combined with nouns such as 'Nachweis' (evidence/proof), 'Aufbau' (setup), 'Daten' (data), or 'Phase' (phase).
EXAMPLE
Der experimentelle Aufbau der Studie war sehr komplex.
The experimental setup of the study was very complex.
Context: art and culture
In this context, 'experimentell' (experimental) describes unconventional approaches. Typical combinations are 'experimentelle Musik' (experimental music), 'experimenteller Film' (experimental film), or 'experimentelles Theater' (experimental theater).
EXAMPLE
Ich höre gerne experimentelle Musik, die nicht jeder mag.
I like listening to experimental music that not everyone likes.
Compare with
antonym
experimentell vs traditionell
traditional
'traditionell' and 'experimentell' form a clear contrast, especially in art, music, methods, or forms. 'traditionell' follows familiar rules, customs, or old habits. 'experimentell' deliberately tries out something new and often breaks with familiar forms. If something is 'traditionell', you are more likely to expect something familiar. If something is 'experimentell', you are more likely to expect surprise, trial, or risk.
experimentell
Das Theaterstück war sehr experimentell und hatte keine normale Handlung.
The play was very experimental and had no normal plot.
traditionell
Leon hat ein traditionelles Gasthaus besucht, weil er regionale Küche probieren wollte.
Leon visited a traditional inn because he wanted to try regional cuisine.