subjectively

Subjectively is an adverb that indicates judgments, evaluations, or experiences based on a person’s own perceptions, feelings, and beliefs rather than on externally verifiable facts. It signals that a claim reflects a point of view shaped by individual psyche, culture, and context, and therefore may differ across observers.

Etymology: derived from subjectivity, the quality of being a subject (a perceiving observer). The word is formed from the root subject- plus the adverbial suffix -ively, with the sense of belonging to the observer rather than to the object described.

Usage and domains: In philosophy and psychology, subjectivity is contrasted with objectivity, the latter aiming for independence from the observer. In criticism and the arts, subjective judgments about beauty, meaning, or quality are central. In everyday speech, people use phrases like “subjectively speaking” or “to me” to mark a personal perspective.

Relation to science and measurement: Scientists attempt to reduce subjectivity through methods, replication, and statistical analysis, but some data rely on subjective measures—for example, perceived pain, mood, or well-being. Distinguishing subjective from objective information helps clarify what is a normative opinion versus a factual claim.

See also: subjectivity, objectivity, bias, perception, opinion, phenomenology. Subjectively captures the inherently personal aspect of experience, reminding readers that much of everyday interpretation rests on personal standpoint even as shared standards guide communal understanding.