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

Examples of hypothesis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Instead, Kate wore what looks like the same eternity band of dark gems and diamonds — a hypothesis one expert verified to PEOPLE. Janine Henni, People.com, 10 Oct. 2024 The authors propose that JWST could actually test the hypothesis that this particular super-puff is actually a ringed, not-so-puffy planet in the coming years. Briley Lewis, Popular Science, 9 Oct. 2024 Editors’ Picks Why Us vs. Them Is Not Such a Bad Way to See the World To test this hypothesis, Dr. Maeno’s team glued dead locusts to wooden sticks and tied them to the ground, alone or in pairs. Gennaro Tomma, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2024 The hypothesis has come under serious scrutiny in biomechanical studies, as well as lengthening medical and legal literature. Kiara Alfonseca, ABC News, 8 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hypothesis 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hypothesis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near hypothesis

Cite this Entry

“Hypothesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hypothesis. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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