verb · academic
hypothesize
UK/haɪˈpɒθəsaɪz/US/ˌhaɪˈpɑːθəsaɪz/hy·POTH·e·size
to propose an explanation or assumption that can be tested
Examples
“We hypothesize that warmer winters will change migration patterns.”
“It is reasonable to hypothesize a link between diet and mood.”
“Scientists often hypothesize possible causes before collecting data.”
Band 8 sentence
“Based on preliminary surveys, we hypothesize that urban migration is driven primarily by employment opportunities rather than educational access.”
Collocations
- hypothesize that + clause
- it is hypothesized that ...
- formulate / propose a hypothesis
Word family
Common mistakes
We hypothesize the reason is lack of data.→We hypothesize that the reason is a lack of data.
I hypothesised this idea.→I hypothesised this hypothesis.
Say it for a higher band
5guess→6speculate→7+hypothesize
Synonyms
speculate
propose
Easily confused
speculate
“Journalists often speculate about the politician's motives.”
Related words
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In -ize
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