In earlier papers in this series we have introduced the ideas of research paradigms and methodologies (Wounds UK 10(2) and 10(3)); the first being the overarching world view that informs the approach to study and the second, the blueprint that is used to design a study of a given phenomenon. In this paper, and others interspersed throughout the series, we will stop to consider the terminology — some of the words associated with research — their meaning and applicability to the research process