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hypothesis

noun

/hʌɪˈpɒθɪsɪs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of hypothesis

An educated guess or a proposed explanation for a phenomenon or a pattern of observations.
"The experiment yielded results that supported the initial hypothesis."

Detailed meaning of hypothesis

It is a statement that can be tested through scientific experimentation or further observation. In scientific research, a hypothesis is used as a starting point for an investigation, and it serves as a basis for designing experiments and collecting data to either support or disprove it.

A hypothesis typically consists of two parts: the independent variable, which is the factor being tested, and the dependent variable, which is the effect that is being observed. The hypothesis states the expected relationship between the two variables.

For example, if a scientist wants to test the effect of a new drug on blood pressure, the independent variable would be the drug and the dependent variable would be the blood pressure. The hypothesis in this case would be "The new drug will lower blood pressure"

A hypothesis is a crucial step in the scientific method as it guides the research and helps to focus on a specific question or problem. The results of the research and experimentation can support or disprove the hypothesis, and it can lead to new discoveries and knowledge.

In summary, a hypothesis is an educated guess or proposed explanation for a phenomenon or a pattern of observations, it's a statement that can be tested through scientific experimentation or further observation, it's a crucial step in the scientific method that guides the research and helps to focus on a specific question or problem.

Example sentences containing hypothesis

1. The scientist formulated a hypothesis to explain the observed phenomenon.
2. The hypothesis proposed by the researcher challenged the existing theories in the field.
3. The students conducted experiments to test their hypothesis about plant growth.
4. The hypothesis stated that increased exposure to sunlight would improve mood.
5. The team developed a hypothesis to investigate the effects of a new drug on cancer cells.
6. The hypothesis suggested that regular exercise would lead to improved cognitive function.

History and etymology of hypothesis

The noun 'hypothesis' draws its linguistic lineage from the combination of two ancient Greek elements. The first part, 'hypo,' originates from the Greek word 'hupo,' meaning 'under' or 'beneath.' The second component, 'thesis,' derives from 'tithēmi,' meaning 'to place' or 'to put forth.' In the context of scientific inquiry and philosophical discourse, the term 'hypothesis' embodies the notion of putting forth an educated guess or proposition that lies beneath the surface of empirical observation. It signifies a preliminary and testable explanation for a phenomenon or a pattern of observations. Thus, the etymology of 'hypothesis' underscores its foundational role in the systematic process of scientific inquiry, where ideas are posited as a starting point for further investigation and analysis.

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Further usage examples of hypothesis

1. The scientist's hypothesis about the origins of the universe sparked a lively debate among colleagues.
2. The study aimed to confirm or refute the hypothesis that caffeine enhances athletic performance.
3. The researchers gathered data to support their hypothesis on the relationship between sleep and memory.
4. The hypothesis proposed that increased levels of pollution would lead to a decline in air quality.
5. The hypothesis suggested that exposure to violent media would lead to increased aggression in children.
6. The scientists revised their hypothesis based on the new evidence they gathered.
7. The study failed to confirm the hypothesis, leading the researchers to reconsider their approach.
8. The hypothesis provided a framework for the investigation, guiding the research process.
9. The scientist presented a compelling hypothesis that challenged conventional wisdom.
10. The hypothesis proposed that higher levels of stress would negatively affect decision-making abilities.
11. The researcher's hypothesis about the effects of music on productivity generated significant interest.
12. The study aimed to test the hypothesis that a specific diet would improve cardiovascular health.
13. The scientist formulated a hypothesis to test in the laboratory.
14. Her hypothesis about the market trends proved accurate.
15. We need evidence to support or refute this hypothesis.
16. The hypothesis was the starting point for the research project.
17. The hypothesis suggests a link between two variables.
18. He proposed an intriguing hypothesis for the mysterious phenomenon.
19. The hypothesis was based on years of careful observation.
20. The team's hypothesis challenged established scientific beliefs.
21. To validate the hypothesis, experiments were meticulously designed.
22. The hypothesis explained the unexpected results of the study.
23. Researchers are now testing the hypothesis with real-world data.
24. The success of the mission hinged on the accuracy of the initial hypothesis.