a priori

 
Pronunciation: /ˌeɪ prʌɪˈɔːrʌɪ, ˌɑː prɪˈɔːri/

adjective

  • relating to or denoting reasoning or knowledge which proceeds from theoretical deduction rather than from observation or experience: a priori assumptions about human nature

adverb

  • in a way based on theoretical deduction rather than empirical observation: sexuality may be a factor but it cannot be assumed a priori

Derivatives

apriorism

Pronunciation: /eɪˈprʌɪərɪz(ə)m/
noun

Origin:

late 16th century: Latin, 'from what is before'