Conjectural: meaning, definitions and examples
🤔
conjectural
[kənˈdʒɛktʃərəl ]
Definition
in academic discussions
Based on guesswork or incomplete information; not certain or confirmed.
Synonyms
hypothetical, presumptive, speculative, tentative.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conjectural |
Used when something is based on conjecture or guesswork rather than solid proof or evidence.
|
| speculative |
Used when something is based on speculation or risky assumptions, often involving uncertain outcomes or investments.
|
| hypothetical |
Used when considering a situation, idea, or statement that is based on possible but not yet real events or conditions.
|
| presumptive |
Used when something is presumed or assumed based on likelihood, often in legal or formal contexts.
|
| tentative |
Used when something is not yet definite or fully worked out, often indicating hesitancy or caution.
|
Examples of usage
- He made a conjectural estimate of the cost of the project.
- Their theory is purely conjectural and lacks evidence to support it.
- The author presented a series of conjectural scenarios for the future.
- Conjectural statements should be supported by evidence.
- It is important to differentiate between factual information and conjectural assumptions.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'conjectura', meaning 'to throw together,' suggesting a mix of ideas or guesses.
- It first appeared in English during the late 16th century, adapting from earlier uses in French and Latin.
- In legal contexts, conjectural might relate to interpretations that aren't based on concrete evidence.
Philosophy
- In philosophy, conjectural reasoning is often used when discussing hypothetical situations or thought experiments.
- Philosophers like Descartes utilized conjectural frameworks to explore the nature of reality and existence.
- Epistemology, the study of knowledge, often grapples with conjectural claims, questioning how we know what we think we know.
Science
- In scientific research, conjectural hypotheses are starting points for exploration, needing more evidence to be proven true.
- Famous scientists, including Einstein, have relied on conjectural ideas as stepping stones to groundbreaking theories.
- In fields like astrophysics, conjectural models help scientists theorize about unseen phenomena, such as black holes.
Literature
- Conjectural narratives create suspense by leaving questions unanswered for readers to ponder.
- Mystery novels often present conjectural clues that readers try to solve before the final reveal.
- Authors like Shakespeare employed conjectural dialogue, allowing characters to express uncertainty and speculation.
Psychology
- In psychology, conjectural thinking can influence how we form perceptions and assumptions about people or situations.
- Cognitive biases often feed into conjectural beliefs, leading us to make judgments without sufficient evidence.
- Therapists may encourage clients to question their conjectural thoughts, promoting a more rational perspective.
Translations
Translations of the word "conjectural" in other languages:
🇵🇹 conjectural
🇮🇳 अनुमानित
🇩🇪 mutmaßlich
🇮🇩 dugaan
🇺🇦 припущений
🇵🇱 domniemany
🇯🇵 推測的
🇫🇷 conjectural
🇪🇸 conjetural
🇹🇷 varsayımsal
🇰🇷 추측의
🇸🇦 افتراضي
🇨🇿 domnělý
🇸🇰 domnelý
🇨🇳 推测的
🇸🇮 domneven
🇮🇸 ágiskunarkenndur
🇰🇿 болжаулы
🇬🇪 ვარაუდობადი
🇦🇿 təxmini
🇲🇽 conjetural