Field
"But the researchers also found that not all seeds benefit equally by being eaten. When they crunched the data collected in the field, they discovered that elephants were responsible for the lion’s share of successful seedling germination."

What does "field" mean here?
Thanks!

Question

Field
"But the researchers also found that not all seeds benefit equally by being eaten. When they crunched the data collected in the field, they discovered that elephants were responsible for the lion’s share of successful seedling germination."

What does "field" mean here? 
Thanks!

Answer

Hi Sunshine,

"In the field" refers to anywhere where the work is being done.  It means to be away from the center, engaged in practical work in the natural environment.

Police in the neighborhoods are working in the field.
Teachers in classrooms are working in the field.
Nurses in hospitals are working in the field.

I hope this helps,
Stephen

Answer

The place where outdoor research takes place is usually referred to as 'the field'.  In this instance the researchers were working outdoors collecting data on seeds.

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