based on conjecture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on conjecture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing conclusions or opinions that are formed without firm evidence, relying instead on speculation or guesswork. Example: "The theory proposed by the researchers is based on conjecture rather than solid empirical data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

"This isn't based on conjecture.

The New York Times

The 10-parts-per-billion standard was "based on conjecture, not science," Mr. Robinson said.

The New York Times

A YouTube spokesman said Thursday that Mr. Wang's report was inaccurate and was based on conjecture.

The New York Times

Some people have said that your conclusion is based on conjecture and not on science.

The New York Times - Magazine

All the assertions made by the secretary of state are based on conjecture and totally hypothetical scenarios.

The Guardian - Opinion

The government of the Marshall Islands, in a statement, criticized the Coast Guard report as based on "conjecture and speculation".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

"Cryptographic security is based on conjectures that are unproved and seemingly very difficult to resolve," Cohn went on.

The New Yorker

Based on conjectures, the failure process of the rock avalanche can be divided into four stages: the preliminary stage, the starting-up stage, the accelerating stage, and the accumulating stage.

Engineering Geology

Results from the experiment indicate that students meaningfully learned about aspects of both algebra and proof in that they produced algebraic proofs involving multiple variables, based on conjectures they themselves generated.

The Journal of Mathematical Behavior

"The state is asking you to make a judgment based on speculation and conjecture," defense attorney Joseph Murtha told jurors in his closing argument.

Los Angeles Times

Conjecture (based on a conjecture of Woodin): Under suitable large cardinal axioms the generic version of ◊ (absoluteness under Coll ω1, R)) implies that H ω2) is Σ22 absolute under countably closed forcing.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "based on conjecture", clearly state that the information lacks definitive proof. Provide context to explain why conjecture is being used in the absence of concrete evidence.

Common error

Avoid presenting information "based on conjecture" as fact. Always qualify the statement to indicate its speculative nature to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on conjecture" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something (e.g., a claim, a theory, an argument) relies on speculation rather than concrete evidence. As Ludwig AI suggests, it signals a lack of certainty.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "based on conjecture" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote that a claim or idea is rooted in speculation rather than concrete evidence. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and general usability. It finds frequent use in news, media and scientific writing to qualify statements and acknowledge uncertainty. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can shift depending on the situation. When employing this expression, you should be clear about the lack of firm proof and provide the audience with relevant context. Alternatives include phrases such as "grounded in speculation" or "founded on assumptions".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grounded in speculation

Emphasizes the speculative nature of the foundation.

founded on assumptions

Highlights the reliance on unproven assumptions.

predicated on guesswork

Focuses on the reliance on uncertain estimates or guesses.

derived from speculation

Indicates that the idea originates from speculative thought.

stemming from surmise

Emphasizes the origin in an inference based on incomplete evidence.

built on unsubstantiated claims

Highlights the lack of evidence supporting the claims.

resting on unproven theories

Focuses on the theoretical nature of the foundation without empirical proof.

contingent on speculative data

Indicates that the conclusion is dependent on data that is not reliable.

inferred from incomplete data

Stresses that the conclusion is drawn from insufficient evidence.

hypothesized without validation

Emphasizes the lack of empirical confirmation.

FAQs

What does "based on conjecture" mean?

The phrase "based on conjecture" means that a statement or idea is based on speculation or guesswork rather than concrete evidence or facts. It suggests that the conclusion is an inference or assumption.

How can I use "based on conjecture" in a sentence?

You can use "based on conjecture" to describe claims or theories that lack empirical support. For example: "The scientist's hypothesis is "based on conjecture", as there is no experimental data to support it."

What are some alternatives to "based on conjecture"?

Alternatives to "based on conjecture" include "grounded in speculation", "founded on assumptions", or "predicated on guesswork". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use information "based on conjecture" in academic writing?

While it's generally best to rely on evidence-based arguments in academic writing, it can be acceptable to discuss ideas "based on conjecture" if you clearly acknowledge their speculative nature and explain the reasoning behind the conjecture. However, always prioritize empirical data when available.