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

Now, a small group of researchers in France and the United States has set out to test an intriguing hypothesis—that the problem can be solved with quantum computers. —Glenn Zorpette, IEEE Spectrum, 29 Apr. 2026

Our goal was to better test the hypothesis of an inborn gender difference in attention to, or interest in, other people. —Lise Eliot, The Conversation, 20 Apr. 2026

The hypothesis is supported by previous research that found that computer programmers become slower when using AI. —Sharon Adarlo, Futurism, 15 Apr. 2026

Then a perusal of several studies that spanned decades and oceans made my hypothesis cloudy enough to blot out that April Fools’ Day moon. —Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 12 Apr. 2026