Meaning of “Hypothesis”
The term “hypothesis” is a cornerstone in research and scientific studies, generally used to refer to a tentative explanation for an observed phenomenon. It’s a testable prediction often used as a starting point for further investigation. In this guide, we delve into a variety of synonyms for “hypothesis” that you can use to diversify your language in general conversation and academic writing. Each synonym is accompanied by a definition and an example to aid in your understanding and application.
General Synonyms for “Hypothesis”
- Theory
- Assumption
- Postulation
- Presumption
- Conjecture
- Speculation
Synonyms for “Hypothesis” in Academic Writing
In academic writing, especially in scientific texts, the usage of synonyms for “hypothesis” needs to be done with precision. Below, you will find synonyms apt for academic writing contexts:
Synonyms, Definitions, and Examples
Explore these academic-friendly synonyms for “hypothesis” along with their definitions and examples:
| Synonym | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Proposition | A statement or assertion that expresses a judgement or opinion | The proposition needs to be tested to validate its authenticity. |
| Postulate | A thing suggested or assumed as true as the basis for reasoning or discussion | Using mathematical models, we can postulate the outcome of the experiment. |
| Premise | A previous statement from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion | If the premise is true, then the conclusion must also be true. |
| Supposition | An uncertain belief or idea, usually based on incomplete information | The study is based on a supposition that the virus spreads through airborne particles. |
| Thesis | A statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved | Her thesis proposes a correlation between poor nutrition and low student performance. |
| Presupposition | A thing tacitly assumed beforehand at the beginning of a line of argument or course of action | His research was based on a presupposition that there is a direct correlation between stress and heart disease. |
“The important thing in science is not so much to obtain new facts as to discover new ways of thinking about them.” – Sir William Bragg
Conclusion
Expanding your academic vocabulary with these synonyms for “hypothesis” can enhance your scientific writing and communication skills. Remember, choosing the right synonym depends on the context of the sentence and the tone you wish to convey in your writing. By understanding and applying these alternatives, you can express your thoughts more precisely and make your writing more impactful and effective.
