tentative assumption

USAGE SUMMARY

'tentative assumption' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to express a belief, opinion, or conclusion based on limited information or evidence. For example, "Based on the data we have gathered so far, we can make the tentative assumption that the new marketing strategy will be successful."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Far from being discredited, the tentative assumption has emerged with enhanced support.

Encyclopedia Britannica

First, a tentative assumption is made about the parameter or distribution.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The 352-page book takes the reader from Sumner's childhood, through the formation of Joy Division, Sumner's grief over the loss of Ian Curtis and tentative assumption of the role of frontman for New Order, and the act's enormous success before in-fighting splintered the group.

Vice

Although Agamidae has been regarded as a metataxon under the tentative assumption of its monophyly [ 2, 3, 10], this no longer seems necessary in light of our strong molecular evidence on the agamid monophyly.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Based on the frequencies and cover values of tree seedlings and saplings in the three habitat types, we formulated tentative assumptions on vegetation dynamics.

Ecological Complexity

In the analysis of paintings, our tentative assumptions are reasonable, since the degradations are expected to show a small correlation to the original painting they affect.

Heritage Science

Still we will attempt to draw out some tentative assumptions about how a changed system may influence positions and relations within the Dutch healthcare landscape.

BMC Health Services Research

Give them a chance not only to react to tentative planning assumptions but also to input fresh planning ideas.

Huffington Post

This assumption is tentative because it is based on a small number of grass species, but for this study the three genes are assumed to be unlinked, and to represent independent phylogenetic estimates.

Plosone

However, we recognize the tentative nature of this assumption.

Biology Direct

There is tentative support for this assumption: Even though we did not find an overall preference for the pre-inclined board, the monkeys' performance was worst in the condition in which both boards had been inclined; only in this condition the subjects performed below chance, indicating a weak but detectable bias towards the stronger inclination.

Animal Cognition

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a "tentative assumption", clearly acknowledge its provisional nature. This enhances transparency and invites further scrutiny or validation.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "tentative assumption" as a definitive conclusion. Ensure your language reflects the uncertainty inherent in the assumption.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tentative assumption" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It's used to introduce a belief or proposition that is not yet fully confirmed, as Ludwig AI confirm.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

News & Media

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tentative assumption" is a noun phrase used to introduce a belief or proposition that is considered preliminary or provisional. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and understandable. While its frequency is relatively rare, it appears in diverse contexts, including science, encyclopedias, and news media. When using "tentative assumption", it's best practice to acknowledge its provisional nature. Common errors include overstating the assumption as a definite conclusion. Alternatives like "preliminary assumption" or "working hypothesis" can be used depending on the specific context. Given its formal tone, it fits academic, scientific, and professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preliminary assumption

Replaces 'tentative' with 'preliminary', suggesting an initial assumption subject to change.

working hypothesis

Substitutes 'assumption' with 'hypothesis' and describes that it is currently being used for study, investigation, or experimentation.

provisional hypothesis

Replaces 'assumption' with 'hypothesis', referring to a temporary assumption adopted as a basis for further investigation.

speculative assumption

Emphasizes the speculative nature of the assumption, implying it's based on conjecture.

initial supposition

Replaces both words, indicating a starting point for reasoning or discussion.

experimental assumption

Highlights that the assumption is made for experimental purposes and may not be definitive.

uncertain premise

Uses 'premise' instead of 'assumption' to suggest an uncertain foundation for an argument.

cautious estimation

Indicates careful consideration and reservation in making the estimation.

unconfirmed belief

Emphasizes that the belief lacks verification or validation.

undeveloped theory

Suggests that the assumption is a rudimentary idea that requires further development.

FAQs

How can I use "tentative assumption" in a sentence?

You can use "tentative assumption" to introduce a proposition that you believe to be true, but that requires further investigation. For example, "Based on the initial findings, we are operating under the "tentative assumption" that the new policy will improve employee satisfaction."

What are some alternatives to using "tentative assumption"?

Alternatives to "tentative assumption" include "preliminary assumption", "working hypothesis", or "speculative assumption". The choice depends on the specific context and the degree of uncertainty involved.

Is it appropriate to use "tentative assumption" in formal writing?

Yes, "tentative assumption" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in academic or scientific contexts where hypotheses are presented with the understanding that they are subject to revision. However, ensure you clearly convey the level of certainty associated with the assumption.

What's the difference between a "tentative assumption" and a hypothesis?

A "tentative assumption" is a general belief or proposition that is being considered, while a hypothesis is a more specific and testable statement that is formulated to be investigated. Hypotheses usually require a more rigorous framework than tentative assumptions.