Guess: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

• I guess the answer is 42.
• Can you guess what I have in my hand?

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.

• We estimate the project's cost to be around $5,000.
• Can you estimate how long the task will take?

Used when foreseeing or forecasting the future based on evidence or trends. It implies a certain level of knowledge or analysis.

• Experts predict the economy will grow by 3% next year.
• Can you predict what will happen in the story?

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.

• People like to speculate on celebrity relationships.
• It's too early to speculate about the winner of the election.

Used when you are trying to give an answer or opinion with little or no evidence or information.

• I guess he's not coming to the party.
• Can you guess how many jellybeans are in the jar?

Used when you make an approximate calculation or judgment based on some information or evidence, often used in business or project planning.

• The contractor gave us an estimate for the renovation cost.
• Can you estimate how long the project will take to complete?

Used when making a forecast about the future based on some analysis, data, or a general understanding of trends.

• The weather forecast includes a prediction of heavy rain.
• Experts are making predictions about the stock market's future performance.

Used when forming a theory or conjecture without firm evidence, often involves a degree of risk or uncertainty.

• There has been widespread speculation about the company's financial health.
• His speculation about the outcome of the election was purely a guess.