crossword clue hypothesis – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "crossword clue hypothesis", you've come to the right place. We provide clear, concise answers and explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue hypothesis" by Letter Count
5 Letters
GUESS: An estimate or conclusion formed without sufficient information, often a first attempt at explaining something.
6 Letters
THEORY: A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, supported by a body of facts and often evolving from a hypothesis.
7 Letters
PREMISE: A previous statement or proposition from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion; a foundational assumption.
9 Letters
POSTULATE: To suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of something as a basis for reasoning, often without proof; a fundamental assumption.
10 Letters
ASSUMPTION: A thing that is accepted as true or as certain to happen, without proof, forming the basis for an argument or action.
CONJECTURE: An opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information; a guess or a preliminary hypothesis.
11 Letters
SPECULATION: The forming of a theory or conjecture without firm evidence; engaging in thought about a subject for which there is insufficient evidence to draw definite conclusions.
More About "crossword clue hypothesis"
The term "hypothesis" is fundamental in scientific inquiry and often appears in various contexts, including crosswords. At its core, a hypothesis is a testable prediction or an educated guess that serves as a starting point for further investigation. It's an unproven idea, a tentative explanation, or a proposed solution to a problem, awaiting validation or refutation through experimentation or observation.
In crosswords, clues related to "hypothesis" can range from direct synonyms like "theory" or "guess" to more nuanced interpretations such as "initial thought," "unproven idea," or "scientific premise." Recognizing the flexibility of this term and its various shades of meaning is crucial for successful puzzle solving. Often, the number of letters will be your biggest clue in distinguishing between similar concepts like a short "guess" and a longer "postulate" or "conjecture."
Mastering words associated with "hypothesis" not only helps with specific clues but also enhances your overall vocabulary for scientific and logical reasoning puzzles. Keep an eye out for context clues in the crossword grid itself, as surrounding words can often provide hints that narrow down the possible answer for "hypothesis."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Word Length: Always check the number of letters required. For "hypothesis," shorter answers might be "guess" or "theory," while longer ones could be "assumption" or "conjecture."
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword setters love to use synonyms. Think of all words that mean something similar to a "hypothesis" – a proposition, a premise, a supposition, a postulate. Sometimes, the opposite concept might also be clued indirectly.
- Identify the Field: Is the crossword themed around science, logic, or everyday language? This can influence which synonym for "hypothesis" is most appropriate. A scientific puzzle might lean towards "theory" or "postulate," while a general one might prefer "guess" or "idea."
- Use Cross-References: If you have a few letters from intersecting words, use them to narrow down the possibilities for "hypothesis." This is often the most effective way to confirm a longer answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a hypothesis and a theory in science?
A hypothesis is an educated guess or a testable prediction based on limited evidence, serving as a starting point for further investigation. A theory, on the other hand, is a comprehensive explanation of some aspect of nature that is supported by a vast body of evidence, repeatedly tested, and widely accepted.
How can understanding the core meaning of 'hypothesis' help in crosswords?
Understanding 'hypothesis' means recognizing its synonyms like 'guess,' 'theory,' 'conjecture,' or 'assumption.' This helps because crossword clues often use synonyms or related concepts. Knowing the nuances (e.g., 'initial idea' vs. 'proven concept') can guide you to the correct answer based on context or letter count.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes related to 'hypothesis' that appear in crosswords?
While 'hypothesis' itself is a root, related terms might include 'hypothetical' (adj.), or in broader scientific contexts, terms with 'bio-', 'geo-', 'neuro-' that might combine with 'theory' or 'speculation.' The key is to look for clues that hint at an unproven idea or a starting point for research.