Supposition Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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supposition

[ˌsʌpəˈzɪʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in reasoning

An uncertain belief; a hypothesis, conjecture, or theory. It is a supposition that the company will merge with a competitor next year.

Synonyms

assumption, guess, presumption, speculation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
supposition	Used when something is assumed or hypothesized without strong evidence, often for theoretical purposes. His supposition about the cause of the problem turned out to be correct. We can't base our decisions on mere supposition.
assumption	Refers to something that is accepted as true or certain to happen, often without proof, and can be a foundational belief or starting point for further reasoning. Her plan was based on the assumption that the weather would be good. The scientist made an assumption that the sample sizes were representative.
presumption	Used when something is accepted as true based on probability or reasonable grounds but without certain proof. It often carries a sense of overconfidence or arrogance. His presumption that everyone agreed with him was mistaken. It's a presumption to think you know what someone else is thinking.
guess	Indicates forming an opinion or conclusion without sufficient information or evidence. It often involves a sense of uncertainty or randomness. I can only make a guess about how much this will cost. He took a guess at her age, hoping he was right.
speculation	Employed when someone forms a theory or conjecture without firm evidence, often related to financial or future events, and carries a sense of uncertainty or risk. There is a lot of speculation about the future of the company. The media engaged in speculation about the celebrity's personal life.

Examples of usage

Her supposition that he was guilty turned out to be wrong.
The argument is based on the supposition that all people are rational beings.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in everyday language

An assumption made without proof. It is just a supposition that she will be late.

Synonyms

belief, conjecture, guess, presumption.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
supposition	Used in formal or academic discussions to indicate something assumed to be true without proof. His argument is based on the supposition that all men are created equal. The theory stands on highly speculative suppositions.
presumption	Used in legal or logical discussions to indicate something taken to be true until proven otherwise, can sometimes have a negative connotation. There is a legal presumption of innocence until proven guilty. His presumption that he would get the job was unfounded.
conjecture	Implies forming an opinion or conclusion based on incomplete information, often used in scientific or analytical discussions. The scientist made a conjecture about the possible outcomes of the experiment. Much of the report was based on conjecture rather than solid facts.
guess	Informal term used to indicate a quick or spontaneous assumption without much information. I've never been to New York, but if I had to guess, I'd say it’s very busy. Take a guess at how many candies are in the jar.
belief	Refers to something accepted as true or real, often used in personal, religious, or philosophical contexts. Her belief in a higher power gives her comfort during tough times. I have a strong belief that honesty is the best policy.

Examples of usage

The whole plan is based on a series of unproven suppositions.
The theory rests on the supposition that the Earth is the center of the universe.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

In philosophy, a supposition can be a starting point for reasoning and debate.
Notable philosophers like Descartes used suppositions to build arguments, often starting with 'I think, therefore I am'.
A supposition can be influential in developing thought experiments and theoretical scenarios.

Science

In the scientific method, a supposition may form a hypothesis that needs to be tested through experiments.
Theories in science often begin as suppositions that guide researchers to seek evidence.
Understanding the difference between a supposition and a proven fact is vital in scientific research.

Literature

In storytelling, suppositions are used to create suspense and intrigue as characters make assumptions about others.
Famous literary plots often revolve around characters making bold suppositions that lead to conflict or resolution.
Authors like Shakespeare employed suppositions to explore themes of doubt and misunderstanding among characters.

Psychology

Cognitive biases can affect how individuals form suppositions, often leading to incorrect assumptions.
The 'confirmation bias' leads people to favor information that supports their suppositions, ignoring contradictory evidence.
Understanding one’s own suppositions can improve critical thinking and decision-making skills.

Origin of 'supposition'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'suppositio', which means 'to place under'.
Originally, it referred to a theory or idea that supported another belief or argument.
The term has evolved in usage, shifting from a philosophical context to everyday language.

The word 'supposition' originated from the Latin word 'supponere', meaning 'to put under, substitute'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, 'supposition' has evolved to represent both uncertain beliefs in reasoning and assumptions made without proof.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,981 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8978 locating
8979 poisonous
8980 cultured
8981 supposition
8982 developers
8983 waving
8984 distributors
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