In tests

Question

The poison could also be used to make painkilling medicine. In fact, a drug is being developed from the chemicals in the frogs' skin. In tests, it has been much more effective than other drugs in stopping pain.

I'd like to pinpoint the meaning of "In tests." Does it refer to "In real tests/experiments?" Thanks.

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

Yes. I'd take it to mean in controlled scientific experiments.

CJ

EnglishRaven · Answer

Yes, I believe it does mean what you suspect it to (i.e. real conducted tests/experiments).

I'm curious - what other meaning did you think it could have?

- Jason

Angliholic · Answer

Thanks, Jim and ER.

I just try to grasp its meaning.

Clive · Answer

Hi,

The poison could also be used to make painkilling medicine. In fact, a drug is being developed from the chemicals in the frogs' skin. In tests, it has been much more effective than other drugs in stopping pain.

I'd like to pinpoint the meaning of "In tests." Does it refer to "In real tests/experiments?" (What do you mean by 'real'?)

I'd make a distinction between tests and experiments. In the scientific process, I see experiments as coming earlier than tests. I also think of experiments as being related more to pure research. ie

An experimenter asks 'What will happen if I do this?'

A tester asks 'Does this work in the way that I think it will?'

A test of a drug might even involve a human subject, but I don't think an experiment would.

Best wishes, Clive

Angliholic · Answer

Concurred! Clive, and thank you for the correction.

In tests

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