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Definitions

speculation

[spek-yuh-ley-shuhn] / ˌspɛk yəˈleɪ ʃən /
NOUN
theory, guess
Synonyms
STRONGEST
belief conjecture opinion thought
STRONG
cerebration cogitation consideration contemplation deliberation excogitation guesstimate guesswork hunch hypothesis meditation reflection review shot stab studying supposition surmise thinking weighing
WEAK
brainwork shot in the dark sneaking suspicion stab in the dark
Antonyms
STRONGEST
reality truth
STRONG
disdain disregard ignorance knowledge measurement neglect proof
WEAK
abstention fact information
NOUN
risk, gamble
Synonyms
STRONGEST
plunge
STRONG
backing flier flutter gambling hazard hunch piece shot spec stab venture wager
WEAK
right money risky business risky venture shot in the dark smart money speculative enterprise
Antonyms
STRONG
proof reality
WEAK
abstention fact information truth

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.

A hype cycle with massive speculation is followed by a selloff as the hype fades and reality sets in.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Invite-only warm-up gigs he played over the last couple of weeks in L.A. led to widespread speculation that at Coachella he might play only material from last year’s “Swag” and “Swag II” comeback albums.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

Last month, Musk’s comments on social media fueled speculation that a Cybertruck-inspired SUV was in the works at Tesla.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

Defining the line between productive uses of capital and mere speculation is a never-ending battle.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Further speculation was curtailed by the appearance of Matthias.

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

Vocabulary lists containing speculation

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American History II

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