Hypothesis: meaning, definitions and examples

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hypothesis

[haɪˈpɒθɪsɪs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

scientific research

A supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.

Synonyms

assumption, presumption, theory.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hypothesis	This is used in scientific or academic settings when proposing a possible explanation or prediction that can be tested through experimentation or observation. My hypothesis is that the growth rate of plants will increase with more sunlight. The researchers are testing their hypothesis about the effects of sleep on memory.
theory	This is used in a more formal setting to describe a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that has been repeatedly tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation. The theory of evolution explains how species change over time. Even though it's just a theory, it is widely accepted in the scientific community.
assumption	This is used when talking about something that is accepted as true without proof, often as a starting point for further reasoning or action. The report was based on the assumption that all data was accurate. We made an assumption that we would have enough resources to complete the task.
presumption	This is used to denote a belief or assumption that is taken for granted or accepted as true, often with a slight implication of overconfidence or presumptuousness. His presumption that he would win the prize was obvious. There is a legal presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

Examples of usage

Their hypothesis was that light could be both a wave and a particle.
The scientist tested her hypothesis through a series of experiments.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

everyday usage

A proposition made as a basis for reasoning, without the assumption of its truth.

Synonyms

conjecture, guess, speculation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hypothesis	When discussing a scientific or academic idea that can be tested and validated through experimentation or observation. The scientists formulated a hypothesis about the behavior of the new compound. Her hypothesis was that increased exercise leads to better sleep.
guess	In casual conversations, when making an assumption without much evidence or when unsure about the answer. I would guess she's about thirty years old. Can you guess what I'm thinking?
speculation	When discussing ideas or theories that are based on conjecture rather than concrete evidence, often in finance or abstract subjects. There was a lot of speculation about the company's future after the CEO resigned. The media's speculation about the celebrity's personal life was rampant.
conjecture	When making an opinion or conclusion based on incomplete information, often in academic or intellectual discussions. His conjecture about the historical event was based on limited archaeological evidence. The researchers made a conjecture on the possible causes of the phenomenon.

Examples of usage

Let's start with the hypothesis that everyone is capable of change.
The success of the project hinges on the validity of this hypothesis.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'hypothesis', meaning 'foundation' or 'assumption'.
It first appeared in English in the late 15th century, reflecting its philosophical roots.
In Greek philosophy, it referred to a proposed explanation that needed proof.

Science

In scientific research, a hypothesis guides experiments and observations.
It is often formulated as an 'If... then...' statement to predict outcomes.
Many groundbreaking discoveries start from simple hypotheses that challenge existing knowledge.

Pop Culture

In popular media, characters often pose a hypothesis to unravel mysteries, like detectives in crime shows.
Science fiction writers sometimes create worlds based on hypothetical scenarios to explore human nature.
The term features in popular documentaries that explain the scientific method and how theories are tested.

Psychology

In psychology, hypotheses can describe expected behaviors based on theories of the mind.
Researchers often test a hypothesis to support psychological principles, like cognitive behavior theories.
The process of forming a hypothesis can reveal biases and assumptions about human behavior.

Literature

Writers often use the structure of hypothesizing to develop plot twists and character motivations in novels.
A hypothesis can also serve as a thematic exploration in literature, exploring 'what if' scenarios.
Classic literature often challenges societal norms through hypothetical dilemmas faced by characters.

Translations

Translations of the word "hypothesis" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hipótese

🇮🇳 परिकल्पना

🇩🇪 Hypothese

🇮🇩 hipotesis

🇺🇦 гіпотеза

🇵🇱 hipoteza

🇯🇵 仮説 (かせつ)

🇫🇷 hypothèse

🇪🇸 hipótesis

🇹🇷 hipotez

🇰🇷 가설 (Gaseol)

🇸🇦 فرضية

🇨🇿 hypotéza

🇸🇰 hypotéza

🇨🇳 假设 (jiǎshè)

🇸🇮 hipoteza

🇮🇸 tilgáta

🇰🇿 гипотеза

🇬🇪 ჰიპოთეზა (hipot’ez'a)

🇦🇿 hipotez

🇲🇽 hipótesis

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,051, 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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