Postulating: meaning, definitions and examples
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postulating
[ˈpɒstjʊleɪt ]
Definition
theory formation
To postulate means to suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of something as a basis for reasoning or discussion. It often involves making an educated guess based on available evidence, without requiring proof at that moment. In scientific contexts, postulating is a key part of hypothesis formulation.
Synonyms
assume, hypothesize, presume, suggest.
Examples of usage
- The scientist is postulating a new theory of gravitation.
- She postulated that the disease could be spread through water.
- They postulated a connection between diet and mental health.
- Researchers are postulating possible effects of climate change on wildlife.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'postulare', meaning 'to demand' or 'to ask', which indicates a position of taking something for granted.
- It has been a part of English vocabulary since the 16th century, initially connected to philosophical discussions.
- Related words include 'hypothesize' and 'assume', which also refer to making educated guesses.
Philosophy
- In philosophical contexts, to postulate can signify establishing a foundation for further reasoning or arguments.
- Renowned philosophers like Immanuel Kant used postulating to frame discussions about knowledge and existence.
- Postulates are often foundational in constructing logical theories, enabling discussions about ethics, existence, and reality.
Science
- In scientific research, postulating is crucial for formulating hypotheses that guide experimentation.
- Theories in fields like physics and biology frequently begin with postulated principles that require testing.
- Famous scientists, including Albert Einstein, made revolutionary scientific postulates that shaped modern theories of relativity.
Education
- In academic writing, students often postulate in essays to introduce arguments or claims they intend to support.
- Postulating encourages critical thinking, helping learners propose ideas that can be explored or debated.
- Teachers often encourage students to postulate as a way to engage deeper with the subject matter and develop analytical skills.
Psychology
- In psychology, postulating can help in forming theories about human behavior based on observations.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy techniques often involve clients postulating about their thoughts and feelings to initiate change.
- Postulations in psychology can lead to new approaches in understanding mental health and cognitive processes.
Translations
Translations of the word "postulating" in other languages:
🇵🇹 postulando
🇮🇳 पदानुक्रमित करना
🇩🇪 postulierend
🇮🇩 memostulkan
🇺🇦 постулюючи
🇵🇱 postulując
🇯🇵 仮定する
🇫🇷 postulant
🇪🇸 postulando
🇹🇷 varsayılan
🇰🇷 가정하다
🇸🇦 افتراض
🇨🇿 postulující
🇸🇰 postulujúci
🇨🇳 假设
🇸🇮 postulirajoč
🇮🇸 postulera
🇰🇿 постулат
🇬🇪 პოსტულირება
🇦🇿 postulasiya
🇲🇽 postulando