hypothesis

[hahy-poth-uh-sis, hi-] / haɪˈpɒθ ə sɪs, hɪ- /

NOUN

theory

Synonyms

STRONGEST

assumption axiom conclusion conjecture explanation guess inference interpretation premise proposition rationale supposition theorem thesis

STRONG

antecedent assignment attribution basis belief condition data deduction demonstration derivation foundation ground layout lemma philosophy plan position postulate presupposition principle proposal reason scheme speculation suggestion surmise system term

WEAK

apriority shot in the dark starting point tentative law

Antonyms

STRONGEST

fact proof reality truth

WEAK

calcualtion measurement

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This jibes with the challenge hypothesis, which says, in multiple species, testosterone levels rise when males battle for attention from potential mates and go down when it’s time to take care of the young.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

When one examines statistical deviations from trend for output and employment, economies look similar before and after recessions, and he sees little support for the Schumpeterian creative-destruction hypothesis.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

That hypothesis suggests the mammals sometimes travel to feeding grounds in the Antarctic but then take a different journey home -- ending up in a completely new breeding area.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

For many years, researchers supported what became known as the Toba catastrophe hypothesis.

From Science Daily • May 11, 2026

I should be dedicating my life to solving the unsolvable problems of mathematics, like the Riemann hypothesis or the Hodge conjecture.

From "The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl" by Stacy McAnulty

Vocabulary lists containing hypothesis

The SAT: Language of the Test, List 1

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100 Top "SAT" Words

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Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

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