Synonym Chooser

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

Example 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 The numbers appeared to back up his hypothesis, with the show welcoming 12,000 visitors over its four-day run, up from around 9,500 a year ago. Alex Wynne, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2025 Joshua Ganz, an economist at the University of Toronto who does a lot of work on AI economics, noted that the results were very consistent with the hypothesis that AI is complementing more senior workers. Big Think, 13 Oct. 2025 The prize recipients tested profound quantum mechanical hypotheses through clear and rigorous experimentation. Zhixin Wang, The Conversation, 10 Oct. 2025 For a discovery to count, the AI has to oversee the entire project, from hypothesis generation to experiment design to data analysis. Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hypothesis
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hypothesis
Noun
  • The connection between the two cases lies in his approach and the use of controversial theories involving rituals and hidden motivations, which drew significant criticism of his conduct as a prosecutor.
    Isadora Wandermurem, Time, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Another theory is that very heavy rainfall after serious drought violently sloshed the waters of Lake Nyos.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Based on Boss’ checks, the TJX thesis is still alive and well.
    Jeff Marks, CNBC, 27 Oct. 2025
  • That’s the thesis of Returning to Myself, Carlile’s eighth solo album.
    Jonathan Bernstein, Rolling Stone, 24 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The 2025 statewide special election is about a week away — and California voters will soon decide whether to approve or reject a statewide ballot proposition.
    Angela Rodriguez, Sacbee.com, 28 Oct. 2025
  • The moment is right to test a worthy proposition.
    STEPHEN WERTHEIM, Foreign Affairs, 28 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Hypothesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hypothesis. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

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