Hypothesis
/haɪˈpɒθəsɪs/
Definitions
A tentative explanation for a phenomenon, used as a basis for further investigation.
/haɪˈpɒθəsɪs/
A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.
The researchers tested their hypothesis with a series of experiments.
💡 Simply: Imagine you think your dog is sick because he's not eating. You have a *hypothesis* – a guess – that maybe he has a tummy ache. You'd then test that idea by taking him to the vet!
👶 For kids: A guess that scientists make to try to figure something out.
More Examples
Before starting the project, they developed a clear hypothesis about the relationship between the two variables.
The study aimed to prove or disprove the original hypothesis.
How It's Used
"Scientists formulate a hypothesis before conducting experiments."
"The essay presents a hypothesis about the causes of social inequality."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
test a hypothesis
To conduct an experiment or study to determine if a hypothesis is supported by evidence.
"Scientists designed an experiment to test the hypothesis about the new drug's effectiveness."
working hypothesis
A hypothesis that is provisionally accepted as a basis for further investigation, even if it lacks conclusive evidence.
"The detective started with a working hypothesis about the victim's connections."
From Greek *hypothesis* (ὑπόθεσις), meaning "a supposition" or "a basis for reasoning." It is formed from *hypo-* (under) and *thesis* (a placing or proposition).
The word 'hypothesis' has been used in scientific and philosophical contexts since the 16th century, originally referring to a proposition or premise.
Memory tip
Think of a 'hypo' (under) 'thesis' (idea). It's an idea that's under consideration, a starting point.
Word Origin
"a laying down, a supposition"