Synonyms of hypothesis

hypothesis

noun

hī-ˈpä-thə-səs 

as in theory

an idea that is the starting point for making a case or conducting an investigation

working on the hypothesis that teenagers function better in the late morning, some high schools are starting classes later

Synonyms & Similar Words

• theory
• thesis
• proposition
• premise
• assumption
• suggestion
• guess
• supposition
• impression
• proposal
• inference
• theorem
• hunch
• conjecture
• suspicion
• speculation
• presumption
• notion
• generalization
• concept
• presupposition
• surmise
• concession
• construct
• conception
• guesswork
• abstraction
• feeling
• proffer
• inkling

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• fact
• knowledge
• assurance
• certainty

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

Recent Examples of hypothesis

The models have to suss them out by taking actions in the game, seeing what happens, forming hypotheses, and then taking more actions to test those theories. — Jeremy Kahn, Fortune, 18 Aug. 2026

Usually a hypothesis justifies the data collected, rather than the reverse. — Jennifer D. Oliva, The Conversation, 17 Aug. 2026

According to the hypothesis, a black hole star would be embedded in a growing galaxy, too, but its light could easily outshine and obscure the surrounding stars. — Lee Billings, Scientific American, 12 Aug. 2026

The hypothesis that Earhart and Noonan landed on Nikumaroro and later perished there has gained steam in recent years. — Christopher Cann, USA Today, 12 Aug. 2026