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Definitions

speculate

[spek-yuh-leyt] / ˈspɛk yəˌleɪt /
VERB
think about deeply and theorize
Synonyms
STRONGEST
contemplate figure out guess hypothesize read reflect ruminate surmise weigh wonder
STRONG
brainstorm cerebrate cogitate conjecture consider deliberate excogitate figure guesstimate meditate muse reason review scheme study suppose suspect
WEAK
beat one's brains build castles in air call it call the turn chew over dope out have a hunch hazard a guess head-trip kick around pipe-dream psych out read between lines run it up flagpole size up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
disregard ignore neglect
STRONG
dismiss forget know
WEAK
abstain
VERB
gamble, risk
Synonyms
STRONG
dare hazard play plunge venture
WEAK
make book margin up play the market pour money into spec stick neck out take a chance take a flier take a fling wildcat
Antonyms
WEAK
abstain ignore neglect

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.

The firm estimates the new order value is roughly $10 million and speculate that the customer is a top transceiver supplier like Cisco Systems, Broadcom, Marvell Technology, Coherent, or Lumentum Holdings.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Some reports took the IBA saying Khelif has XY chromosomes to speculate that the fighter might have DSD.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

They can be used to protect a portfolio against further short-term pain in the stock market, or to speculate on a decline.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 19, 2026

After the game, Cronin said he would not speculate on the extent of the injury but it would take a miracle for the coach to let him play, even if Bilodeau were cleared.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

They speculate about how much snow we are bound to get tonight, how long it will stay on the ground, when we might expect more snow, and what kind of winter it will be.

From "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline