HYPOTHESIS Synonyms: 35 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'hypothesis' differ from other similar words?

The words law and theory are common synonyms of hypothesis . While all three words mean "a formula derived by inference from scientific data that explains a principle operating in nature," hypothesis implies insufficient evidence to provide more than a tentative explanation. // a hypothesis explaining the extinction of the dinosaurs

Q: When can 'law' be used instead of 'hypothesis'?

The synonyms law and hypothesis are sometimes interchangeable, but law implies a statement of order and relation in nature that has been found to be invariable under the same conditions. // the law of gravitation

Q: In what contexts can 'theory' take the place of 'hypothesis'?

The words theory and hypothesis can be used in similar contexts, but theory implies a greater range of evidence and greater likelihood of truth. // the theory of evolution

hypothesis

noun

hī-ˈpä-thə-səs

Definition of hypothesis next

as in theory

an idea that is the starting point for making a case or conducting an investigation working on the hypothesis that teenagers function better in the late morning, some high schools are starting classes later

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How does the noun hypothesis differ from other similar words?

The words law and theory are common synonyms of hypothesis. While all three words mean "a formula derived by inference from scientific data that explains a principle operating in nature," hypothesis implies insufficient evidence to provide more than a tentative explanation.

a hypothesis explaining the extinction of the dinosaurs

When can law be used instead of hypothesis?

The synonyms law and hypothesis are sometimes interchangeable, but law implies a statement of order and relation in nature that has been found to be invariable under the same conditions.

the law of gravitation

In what contexts can theory take the place of hypothesis?

The words theory and hypothesis can be used in similar contexts, but theory implies a greater range of evidence and greater likelihood of truth.

the theory of evolution

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of hypothesis If the groomer still finishes by latching on, then that would be strong support for the hypothesis. —

Byphie Jacobs, science.org, 28 Oct. 2024 The philosophy of JPMorgan Chase aligns with Sonnenfeld’s hypothesis. —

Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 27 Oct. 2024 The hypothesis has come under serious scrutiny in biomechanical studies, as well as a growing body of medical and legal literature. —

Kiara Alfonseca, ABC News, 16 Oct. 2024 Bloodwork results furnish evidence for Elsbeth’s roofie hypothesis; Mac had high levels of a substance called scopolamine in her system. —

Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hypothesis

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hypothesis

Noun

While the triggers for the extreme cold at that time are debated, prevailing theories involve changes in tectonic plate activity, including the release of particles into the atmosphere that reflected sunlight away from Earth.

Liam Courtney-Davies, Discover Magazine, 14 Nov. 2024
One theory is that its effects may have something to do with the drugs’ ability to induce the feeling of satiation.

Kaitlin Sullivan, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024