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 older hypothesis, known as miasma theory, had also been charted. Jonathon Keats, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 Failing to test hypotheses via incremental launches and skipping milestone checks risks prioritizing activity over impact, wasting resources on features customers may not value or use rather than driving meaningful innovation. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 In the search for extraterrestrial life, much like climate change, there is a detection and attribution phase, which requires the robust testing of hypotheses and also rigorous scrutiny. Oliver Swainston, Space.com, 28 June 2025 However, the controls on toxin production are complex, and more research is needed to test this hypothesis. Gregory J. Dick, The Conversation, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for hypothesis
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hypothesis
Noun
  • But Margulis took her theory further; in her view, symbiosis was the driving force of evolution, and many entities were likely composites.
    Zoë Schlanger, The Atlantic, 23 July 2025
  • But they have long been stuck between theory and the promise of commercialization in the next five to 10 years.
    Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 22 July 2025
Noun
  • Nothing tests a thesis faster than a cold call to a busy healthcare executive.
    Mathieu Rihet, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
  • So, those two academic interests led me to an honors thesis focused on Palestinian refugees who were fleeing Syria.
    Lisa Deaderick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 July 2025
Noun
  • Since competitors are doing the same, this can create an intricate balance between your SaaS company's pricing and the value proposition in the context of the whole market.
    Mindaugas Čaplinskas, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Additionally, Loro Piana continued to emphasize its outdoorsy proposition through coarse wools and nylon fabrics, while lighter and even more luxurious options included 100 percent silk textiles.
    Andrea Onate, Footwear News, 11 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

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

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