Anecdotally is an adverb used to describe something that is based on personal experience or anecdote rather than any scientific evidence or research. Synonyms for anecdotally can include anecdotal, subjectively, experientially, historically, narratively, informally, descriptively, qualitatively, and observationally among others. All of these words indicate that what is being said is not necessarily backed by rigorous data or statistical analysis. However, they do convey a sense of something being observed and reported in a first-hand, personal manner. When writing or speaking anecdotally, it is important to be clear that what is being shared is based on personal observation and not necessarily a representative sample.