as in theoretic
existing only as an assumption or speculation
a speculative explanation of why this ancient pottery was found hundreds of miles from where it was made
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of speculative
We aren’t focused on speculative trading or different types of digital assets.
—
Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 5 June 2025
Researchers are entangling objects large enough to see, quantum computers are on the cusp of solving problems no classical machine can touch, and speculative ideas such as vacuum decay and alternative realities are serious science.
—Andrea Gawrylewski, Scientific American, 3 June 2025
Luxury facilities, non-teaching research ventures, speculative real estate holdings—those could justifiably be subject to tax.
—Matthew Scogin, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
The lawsuit’s claim that retaliation from the Trump administration could be imminent for schools that do not comply with the administration’s demands is not entirely speculative.
—Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for speculative
Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 5 June 2025
Researchers are entangling objects large enough to see, quantum computers are on the cusp of solving problems no classical machine can touch, and speculative ideas such as vacuum decay and alternative realities are serious science.
—Andrea Gawrylewski, Scientific American, 3 June 2025
Luxury facilities, non-teaching research ventures, speculative real estate holdings—those could justifiably be subject to tax.
—Matthew Scogin, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
The lawsuit’s claim that retaliation from the Trump administration could be imminent for schools that do not comply with the administration’s demands is not entirely speculative.
—Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for speculative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for speculative
Adjective
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Polling of a hypothetical election matchup for lieutenant governor shows Republican incumbent Dan Patrick leading Democratic state Representative Vikki Goodwin, 46 percent to 42 percent.—
Nick Mordowanec,
MSNBC Newsweek,
25 June 2025
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To see how this all works, consider Maria, a 58-year-old hypothetical diabetic patient who hasn’t filled her statin prescription.—
Mika Newton,
Forbes.com,
25 June 2025
Adjective
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These frameworks are not theoretical, as they are based on real-world leadership challenges and offer actionable tools leaders can apply immediately.—
Tony Gambill,
Forbes.com,
24 June 2025
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The Athletic's Jim Bowden recently outlined a theoretical deal in which the Cardinals would trade Helsley, Arenado, and cash to the Detroit Tigers to land superstar prospect Kevin McGonigle.—
Zach Pressnell,
MSNBC Newsweek,
24 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Speculative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/speculative. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.
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