hypothesis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hypothesis" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in scientific, academic, or research contexts when proposing a testable explanation for a phenomenon. Example: "The hypothesis suggests that increased sunlight exposure leads to higher plant growth rates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There could have been huge benefits to Europe in such convergence, but the process was deliberately sabotaged by US intelligence agencies, working from the hypothesis that a tie-up between the EU and a democratic Russia would pose a major threat to American long-term economic interests.

The Guardian

In science, we test the hypothesis and report the findings.

The Guardian - Opinion

A study by Elson and colleagues last year showed that for one particular methodology, the modified Taylor Competitive Reaction Time task, if you take a typical data set and analyse it using one of twenty-eight different analytical variants that exist in the research literature, it is possible to find 'evidence' to support any hypothesis you so wish.

The Guardian

Indeed, were Gordon Brown to fall under a bus - and the hypothesis is usually related to serving, rather than putative, prime ministers, Johnson would certainly be my candidate to succeed Blair.

The Guardian - Opinion

He is known for proposing the Gaia hypothesis.

The Guardian

They attributed the larger wide plates to males, in keeping with the "handicap hypothesis", which sees males invest in cumbersome body parts to prove their evolutionary fitness.

The Guardian

It took a further three years before he became the darling of the French avant garde with L'Hypothèse du Tableau Volé (The Hypothesis of the Stolen Painting, 1978).

The Guardian - Film

So, while it is reasonable to start from the position that any association between scientists and industry may indicate a conflict of interest, that is not evidence, it is just a hypothesis.

The Guardian - Opinion

While I'm aware that the group in El Salvador has this hypothesis, and I'm always open to being convinced, our data just don't seem consistent with it".

The Guardian

(Psychology PhD candidates in need of a thesis: please test this hypothesis).

The Guardian - Opinion

It's a hypothesis that would be severely tested in any March election.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing a research paper, clearly state your "hypothesis" at the end of the introduction to provide a roadmap for your readers.

Common error

Avoid using "hypothesis" and "theory" interchangeably. A "hypothesis" is a testable explanation, while a theory is a well-substantiated explanation acquired through the scientific method and repeatedly tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation.

Linguistic Context

The noun "hypothesis" functions as a central element in scientific reasoning and research. It represents a testable statement or prediction derived from existing knowledge, often serving as the basis for experimental design and data analysis. Ludwig confirms the diverse applicability of the term across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "hypothesis" is a cornerstone of scientific inquiry, representing a testable explanation for an observed phenomenon. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals that it is grammatically sound and widely used across diverse fields, particularly in news, science, and formal business contexts. Understanding the nuances between a "hypothesis" and a "theory" is essential for precise communication. By following best practices and avoiding common errors, writers can effectively use "hypothesis" to convey their research and ideas with clarity and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Assumption

A thing that is accepted as true or as certain to happen, without proof.

Supposition

Suggests an assumption made without concrete evidence.

Conjecture

Implies a guess or speculation, often based on incomplete information.

Working assumption

Implies a temporary or provisional assumption used for the sake of argument or investigation.

Theory

Broader in scope and supported by more evidence than a "hypothesis".

Speculation

Indicates a thought or consideration based on limited or uncertain grounds.

Thesis

A statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved.

Proposition

A statement or assertion that expresses a judgment or opinion.

Presumption

An idea that is taken to be true on the basis of probability.

Premise

A previous statement or proposition from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion.

FAQs

How to use "hypothesis" in a sentence?

You can use "hypothesis" to propose an explanation for an observation, as in "The "hypothesis" suggests that increased exercise improves cognitive function".

What's the difference between "hypothesis" and "theory"?

A "hypothesis" is a tentative explanation that needs testing, while a "theory" is a well-substantiated explanation supported by evidence.

What can I say instead of "hypothesis"?

Alternatives include "supposition", "conjecture", or "assumption", depending on the context.

Which is correct: "a hypothesis" or "an hypothesis"?

"A "hypothesis"" is the correct form, as "hypothesis" begins with a consonant sound.