Word
hypothesis
Meanings
a testable proposed explanation for an observation or problem
an unproven idea or assumption used as a starting point for reasoning or discussion
Definition
A hypothesis is a testable idea or explanation for why something happens.
A hypothesis is a suggested explanation that you can test with observations or experiments. It is often based on what you already know, but it is not yet proven. Scientists use hypotheses to make predictions and guide research. A good hypothesis is clear and specific enough to be checked with evidence.
Examples
- My hypothesis is that more sleep improves memory.
- The experiment was designed to test the hypothesis.
- Her hypothesis didn’t match the results, so she revised it.
- We need evidence before we accept the hypothesis.
- The data strongly supports the hypothesis.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse hypothesis with theory, but a hypothesis is a specific testable proposal, while a theory is a broader well-supported explanation.
More at B2 level
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More nouns
- fascism Fascism is an extreme right-wing political system with a powerful dictator, strong nationalism, and…
- gaslighting Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that makes someone doubt their own memory, judg…
- narcissist A narcissist is someone who is excessively self-centered and craves admiration while showing little…
- empathy Empathy is the ability to understand and share another person’s feelings.
- metaphor A metaphor is a way of describing something by saying it is something else to create a clear image …