qualitatively

Qualitatively is an adverb derived from qualitative, used to describe analysis, assessment, or description that focuses on the qualities or characteristics of something rather than on numerical measurements. The term is often paired with qualitative as opposed to quantitative, which concerns quantities and amounts. The adjective it derives from, qualitative, relates to properties that define a thing’s nature, rather than its size or magnitude.

In research and evaluation, qualitatively signals that information has been gathered or interpreted in non-numeric form. Qualitative methods aim to understand meaning, experience, and context, often through text, imagery, or observed behavior. Common approaches include interviews, participant observation, ethnography, and content or discourse analysis. Outcomes typically include rich descriptions, themes, and theoretical insights rather than generalizable statistics.

Qualitatively can also refer to assessments or judgments about features or attributes, described in terms of their qualities. For example, a product might be evaluated qualitatively as durable and aesthetically pleasing, without a numeric score. In some sciences, qualitative descriptions are used alongside quantitative data to provide a fuller picture of a phenomenon.

Limitations of qualitative use include potential subjectivity and limited generalizability. To improve rigor, researchers apply strategies such as reflexivity, triangulation, transparent coding procedures, and audit trails. The term remains common in social sciences, market research, and fields where understanding meaning and context is essential.