speculation

Word Origin & History

late 14c., "contemplation, consideration," from Old French speculation, from Late Latin speculationem (nominative speculatio) "contemplation, observation," from Latin speculatus, past participle of speculari "observe," from specere "to look at, view" (see scope (n.1)). Disparaging sense of "mere conjecture" is recorded from 1570s. Meaning "buying and selling in search of profit from rise and fall of market value" is recorded from 1774; short form spec is attested from 1794.

Example Sentences for speculation

Speculation was rife as to who would inherit the estate which he left behind him.

We are pure nothings, concerning which speculation is not worth the trouble.

Mr Pancks still clung to that word, and never said speculation.

He had come to Eden on a speculation of this kind, but had abandoned it, and was about to leave.

I regret that I wasn't here in those heroic days of speculation.

There was question in his mouth, but neither question nor speculation in his eyes.

But I forget that speculation about the new life is not writing the history of the old.

So much that there had been speculation about their relationship—that didn't interest him.

Whether in practice or speculation, he is to himself only in successive instants.

Is not the reconciliation of mind and body a necessity, not only of speculation but of practical life?

speculation

opinions

phantasma

prognosis

raffle

reason

reasons

reflection

reflections

speculation

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