Conjecture Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🤔
conjecture
[kənˈdʒɛktʃər ]
Definitions
in mathematics
An opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information. A mathematical proposition that has been formed but not yet proved.
Synonyms
guess, hypothesis, speculation, theory.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conjecture |
Used when making a conclusion based on incomplete or insufficient information. Often without any substantial evidence.
|
| speculation |
Used when forming ideas or opinions based on incomplete information. Often includes extended thinking or theorizing. Can carry a negative connotation when suggesting baseless rumors.
|
| guess |
Used in informal situations when you are uncertain about an answer or outcome. Often spontaneous and lacking detailed thought.
|
| theory |
Used to explain situations or phenomena based on substantial evidence and widespread testing. Stronger and more formal than a hypothesis.
|
| hypothesis |
Used in scientific or academic contexts to propose a testable explanation based on limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.
|
Examples of usage
- Her conjecture about the theorem turned out to be correct.
- The conjecture has not been proven yet.
general
To form an opinion or supposition about something without firm evidence. To guess.
Synonyms
assume, guess, speculate, surmise.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conjecture |
Used when making an opinion or conclusion formed with incomplete information, often seen in academic or formal settings.
|
| speculate |
Used when forming a theory or conjecture without firm evidence, often in discussions or analyses.
|
| guess |
Refers to making an estimate or conclusion without sufficient information, often informal and casual.
|
| surmise |
Applied when assuming something is true without having complete evidence, more formal than 'guess'.
|
| assume |
Applied when accepting something as true without proof, common in everyday language and situations.
|
Examples of usage
- He conjectured that she would not come to the party.
- We can only conjecture about the outcome.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In mathematics, a conjecture is an educated guess that has yet to be proven true or false.
- Famous conjectures, such as Fermat's Last Theorem, remained unsolved for centuries before being proven.
Philosophy
- Philosophers often debate the nature of knowledge, discussing how much of what we understand is based on conjecture.
- Plato recommended skepticism towards conjectures, emphasizing the importance of seeking true knowledge.
Literature
- Many authors use conjecture as a literary device to introduce mystery, allowing characters and readers to ponder outcomes.
- The famous detective Sherlock Holmes often relied on conjecture to solve cases, piecing together clues.
Pop Culture
- In popular TV shows and movies, characters often make conjectures about other people's motives, which drives the plot.
- The Internet is full of conjectures about upcoming trends, shows, and celebrity relationships, showcasing public curiosity and speculation.
Origin of 'conjecture'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Latin word 'coniectura', meaning 'a placing together', reflecting how you gather ideas.
- The prefix 'con-' means 'together,' and 'jectura' comes from 'iacere', which means 'to throw'.
The word 'conjecture' originated from the Latin word 'conjectura', meaning 'a throwing together, inference'. The term first appeared in English in the 16th century, initially used in mathematical contexts to denote a conclusion reached by guesswork or incomplete information. Over time, its usage has expanded to encompass general opinions or suppositions based on limited evidence.