finding

Finding is a noun with two primary senses. It can mean the act of discovering something, or the thing discovered itself. The term is used across fields to refer to results or objects resulting from investigation or search.

In legal contexts, a finding is a determination by a judge or jury about a fact or issue of law. A final finding resolves a contested point and may influence judgments, sentences, or orders.

In science and research, findings are conclusions drawn from data and observations. They are reported as results or conclusions in studies and should be supported by evidence; findings can be preliminary or confirmatory and may be revised with new information. In archaeology, a finding is an artifact or feature uncovered during excavation.

In journalism, policy, and business, findings summarize what has been learned from analysis, audits, or assessments. The singular form finding refers to one conclusion; findings refers to multiple conclusions.

The interpretation of findings depends on methods, context, and potential biases. Transparent reporting helps assess reliability and applicability.