Speculation: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when discussing ideas or guesses that are based on incomplete information or without firm evidence.

• There is speculation about who will win the upcoming election.
• The company's future plans are the subject of much speculation.

Used in situations where forming an opinion or conclusion based on incomplete information is involved, often implying a higher degree of uncertainty.

• Their conjecture about the cause of the accident was later disproved.
• The scientist offered a conjecture on how the universe may have been formed.

Often used in scientific or academic settings to describe a system of ideas intended to explain something, based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained.

• Einstein's theory of relativity revolutionized physics.
• Darwin's theory of evolution explains the diversity of life on Earth.

Applied when referring to something that is accepted as true without proof, often as a basis for reasoning or action.

• His argument is based on the assumption that the economy will improve.
• We need to challenge the assumption that bigger is always better.

Used when discussing something that is uncertain or based on guesses. Often involves making assumptions without solid evidence.

• There is a lot of speculation about who will be the new CEO
• The media's speculation about the celebrity's private life caused many rumors

Used when carefully thinking about or paying attention to something, especially before making a decision.

• After much consideration, she decided to accept the job offer
• The committee gave full consideration to all the proposals

Used when thinking back or looking at past experiences, often to learn from them or gain insight.

• In moments of reflection, she realized how much she had changed
• The book encourages reflection on one's own life and choices

Used when engaging in deep, prolonged thought, often about something complex or significant.

• He spent hours in contemplation of his future career
• The quiet park is a perfect place for contemplation

Used when discussing thoughts or theories that are not based on definite evidence. Common in financial markets, science, or news when predicting future events.

• There is a lot of speculation about the company's new product launch.
• The economist’s speculation on the market trends caused some stir.

Information or a story that is passed from person to person but has not been verified. Often has a negative or potentially harmful connotation.

• There were rumors that the company was going to lay off employees.
• She didn't want to believe the rumors about her friend's behavior.

Refers to casual or unconstrained conversation about others, often involving details that are not confirmed as true. It is usually informal and can sometimes be seen as negative or intrusive.

• She loves to spread gossip about her colleagues during lunch breaks.
• The magazine is full of celebrity gossip.

Statements or information passed from one person to another without any evidence. Often considered unreliable, particularly in legal contexts.

• In court, the judge dismissed the statement as hearsay.
• You shouldn't believe everything you hear; most of it is just hearsay.