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clinical

adjective

/ˈklɪnɪkl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of clinical

Having a detached, objective, and systematic approach, with a focus on efficiency and results, often lacking warmth or empathy.
"The CEO's clinical approach to business decisions often resulted in layoffs and cutbacks."

Detailed meaning of clinical

A 'clinical' approach may be seen as coldly detached, rigidly procedural, and impersonal. It can imply a lack of compassion or understanding, and a tendency to prioritize logical analysis and rational decision-making over subjective experience or intuition. In this sense, the term can be used to describe a style of communication, leadership, or behavior that is perceived as cold, calculating, or robotic. However, it is important to note that this negative connotation is not inherent in the word 'clinical,' and its use should be considered in context.

Example sentences containing clinical

1. The lawyer's cross-examination was clinical, leaving no room for emotion or empathy.
2. The coach's clinical feedback to the team lacked any praise or encouragement.
3. The surgeon's clinical precision was impressive but lacked bedside manner.
4. The therapist's clinical detachment made it difficult for patients to open up emotionally.
5. The teacher's clinical teaching style focused solely on achieving high test scores.
6. The scientist's clinical analysis of the data ignored any potential ethical concerns.

History and etymology of clinical

The adjective 'clinical' has an etymology rooted in both Latin and Greek. It derives from the Latin word 'clinicus,' which means 'pertaining to a bed,' referring to a medical setting where patients are examined and treated. 'Clinicus' itself has Greek origins, coming from the Greek word 'klinikos,' which means 'of a bed' or 'pertaining to a physician's bed.' Over time, 'clinical' came to describe an approach that is detached, objective, systematic, and focused on efficiency and results, often lacking warmth or empathy. The etymology of 'clinical' underscores its historical association with medical examination and treatment, highlighting its methodical and objective nature, akin to the approach taken by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting.

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Further usage examples of clinical

1. The judge's clinical verdict seemed to overlook the human impact of the case.
2. The dentist's clinical approach to treating patients left little room for patient comfort.
3. The manager's clinical evaluation of employee performance lacked any personal feedback.
4. The politician's clinical response to a tragedy came across as insensitive and uncaring.
5. The journalist's clinical reporting on sensitive topics lacked any human interest angle.
6. Her clinical analysis of the data revealed insightful trends.
7. His clinical demeanor in surgery reassured patients.
8. The manager's clinical evaluation improved workflow.
9. A clinical review of the project identified weaknesses.
10. The scientist's clinical approach led to breakthroughs.
11. The lawyer's clinical questioning uncovered the truth.
12. His clinical precision in coding minimized errors.
13. The accountant's clinical audit uncovered discrepancies.
14. Her clinical expertise saved lives in the ER.
15. A clinical analysis of market data informed decisions.
16. The detective's clinical observations solved the case.
17. His clinical detachment made him an excellent judge.
18. The professor's clinical critique improved essays.
19. A clinical assessment of the process identified flaws.
20. The coach's clinical tactics led to victory.
21. Her clinical diagnosis pinpointed the illness.
22. The engineer's clinical design minimized inefficiencies.
23. A clinical examination revealed potential issues.
24. The pilot's clinical precision ensured a safe landing.
25. His clinical management style improved productivity.
26. The therapist's clinical approach aided recovery.
27. A clinical perspective offered fresh insights.
28. The CEO's clinical decisions drove profitability.
29. Her clinical analysis of the experiment enhanced accuracy.
30. A clinical assessment of the situation clarified priorities.