Guess Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
guess
[ษกes ]
Definitions
game
To form an opinion or give an answer about something when you do not know much or anything about it.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| guess |
Used when you are unsure about something and make a random or educated attempt to determine an answer. It implies uncertainty and often lacks sufficient evidence.
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| estimate |
Used when you are trying to determine an approximate value, quantity, or extent based on available information. It has a formal tone, often used in statistics, calculations, and predictions.
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| predict |
Used when foreseeing or forecasting the future based on evidence or trends. It implies a certain level of knowledge or analysis.
|
| speculate |
Used when making assumptions or conclusions without definite evidence. It often involves forming theories or opinions, sometimes in a casual or uncertain manner. This word can sometimes carry a negative connotation, implying a lack of solid foundation.
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Examples of usage
- I can only guess what the outcome will be.
- She guessed my age correctly.
- He guessed that I wouldn't be able to solve the puzzle.
game
An attempt to give an answer or opinion about something when you are not sure if it is right.
Synonyms
estimate, prediction, speculation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| guess |
Used when you are trying to give an answer or opinion with little or no evidence or information.
|
| estimate |
Used when you make an approximate calculation or judgment based on some information or evidence, often used in business or project planning.
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| prediction |
Used when making a forecast about the future based on some analysis, data, or a general understanding of trends.
|
| speculation |
Used when forming a theory or conjecture without firm evidence, often involves a degree of risk or uncertainty.
|
Examples of usage
- It's just a guess, but I think they will arrive around 3 PM.
- Her guess was close to the actual number.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Making a guess often taps into our intuition, where our brain uses past experiences to inform its prediction.
- Studies have shown that people are more likely to make a guess when faced with uncertainty, often using cognitive shortcuts.
Games and Entertainment
- Guessing games like Charades and Twenty Questions rely on players using clues to make educated guesses.
- The popular game show 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' allows contestants to 'guess' answers, often using lifelines to aid their decision.
Education
- Guessing can be a crucial skill in learning, as it encourages risk-taking and critical thinking in problem-solving.
- Teachers often encourage students to guess as a way to engage them in discussions and reveal their thought processes.
Pop Culture
- Movies often feature scenes where characters must guess the truth about a mystery, creating suspense and engagement.
- Social media quizzes and polls encourage participants to guess answers, fostering interaction and sharing among users.
Origin of 'guess'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'guess' comes from the Old Norse word 'gรฆta,' which means 'to consider' or 'to guard.'
- In Middle English, the word was 'gessen,' which evolved over time into the modern term we use today.
The word 'guess' originated from Middle Dutch 'gessen', meaning 'to try to judge'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, 'guess' has evolved to represent forming an opinion or estimate based on limited information.
See also: guesser, guessing, guesstimate.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #3,103, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.
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