Hypothesis
Noun
Definition: A supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.
Synonyms: Theory, Premise, Assumption
Antonyms: Fact, Reality, Certainty
- The scientist formulated a hypothesis to explain the unexpected results.
- It is important to test your hypothesis through experimentation.
- Think of a hypothesis as a "hypo" (a guess) that you put forth for further investigation.
Etymology:
Late Middle English via late Latin from Greek hupothesis, from hupo 'under' + thesis 'placing'.
Historical Usage:The term "hypothesis" has been used in scientific and philosophical contexts since ancient times, with its current meaning solidified in the field of science during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Related Idioms:
Explanation:
A hypothesis is a proposed explanation that requires further investigation and testing, whereas a fact is a statement that is proven to be true. A hypothesis is a starting point for scientific inquiry, but it is not synonymous with truth or certainty.
Misconceptions:
Equating a hypothesis with an established fact.
Explanation:A hypothesis is a proposed explanation that requires further investigation and testing, whereas a fact is a statement that is proven to be true. A hypothesis is a starting point for scientific inquiry, but it is not synonymous with truth or certainty.