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.

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

Its goal was to test the hypothesis: Does using hormone therapy decrease the risk of heart disease?

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

Some Argentinian officials have said that is their leading hypothesis, but nothing has yet been confirmed.

From BBC • May 11, 2026

This unsettling idea is what defines the Boltzmann brain hypothesis.

From Science Daily • May 3, 2026

“Aliens who etch little hearts into stone in the middle of the California desert. Of course, Occam’s razor. Go with the hypothesis with the fewest assumptions needed. Vandalizing aliens it is.”

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed

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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