hypothesis
Definitions
A proposed explanation made on limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.
假设；假说（基于有限证据提出、有待检验的解释）
A supposition or assumption made for the sake of argument.
（为论证而做的）假定
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedhypo- (under) + thesis (a placing) = something placed underneath as a foundation. A hypothesis is an idea you slide under an investigation to support it — a tentative assumption you build reasoning on, not a proven fact. If the evidence holds, it stands; if not, it's discarded.
Root thes still carries 8 more wordsUsage Guide
The plural is irregular: hypotheses (/-siːz/). Common verbs: form, propose, test, support, confirm, reject a hypothesis. "Working hypothesis" = one adopted provisionally to guide research. Keep it distinct from "theory": in science a theory is a well-tested explanation, a hypothesis is the untested starting guess.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Scientists tested the hypothesis that the drug slows memory loss.
- 2.
The data supported our original hypothesis.
- 3.
Let's start from the hypothesis that the leak began in the basement.
- 4.
If the experiment fails, we'll have to reject the hypothesis.
Easily Confused
hypothesis vs theory — A hypothesis is an untested guess; a theory (in science) is an explanation supported by lots of evidence. Don't downgrade "theory" to "just a guess." hypothesis vs assumption — an assumption is something you take for granted without testing; a hypothesis is specifically set up to be tested.