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speculative
IPA:
Dictionary definition of speculative
Based on conjecture, theory, or assumptions rather than concrete evidence or facts.
"The scientist proposed a speculative theory that challenged existing scientific principles."
Detailed meaning of speculative
It suggests a contemplative or hypothetical nature, often involving exploration or consideration of possibilities or potential outcomes. When something is described as speculative, it implies that it involves speculation or guesswork rather than being firmly grounded in certainty or reality. It can apply to various domains, including investments, discussions, reasoning, or creative endeavors. In financial contexts, a speculative investment is considered risky or uncertain, with potential for significant gains or losses. In general, a speculative idea or proposition indicates a degree of uncertainty or supposition, emphasizing the need for further investigation, validation, or evidence to support its claims or assertions.
Example sentences containing speculative
1. The stock market is known for its speculative nature, with prices fluctuating based on investor sentiment.
2. The writer engaged in speculative thinking, exploring various scenarios for the plot of their novel.
3. The company made a speculative investment in a promising startup, hoping for future returns.
4. The professor encouraged her students to engage in speculative discussions, encouraging critical thinking.
5. The artist's experimental painting style was met with mixed reviews due to its speculative nature.
6. The newspaper article presented a speculative analysis of the political situation, offering possible outcomes.
History and etymology of speculative
The adjective 'speculative' traces its linguistic roots to the Latin word 'speculativus,' which was derived from 'speculum,' meaning 'mirror' or 'reflection.' In English, 'speculative' has evolved to signify ideas, theories, or activities that are based on conjecture, theory, or assumptions rather than concrete evidence or facts. It reflects the notion of examining concepts or possibilities as if looking into a mirror of the mind. 'Speculative' thinking involves contemplation, often without definitive proof, and it is a fundamental aspect of philosophy, science, and various intellectual pursuits where hypotheses and theories are explored and debated in the quest for knowledge and understanding.
Further usage examples of speculative
1. The team engaged in speculative brainstorming to generate innovative ideas for their project.
2. The rumors about the new product release were purely speculative and lacked any factual basis.
3. The philosopher pondered the speculative nature of existence and the meaning of life.
4. The decision to make major changes to the company's strategy was based on speculative market trends.
5. The journalist wrote a speculative article about the potential consequences of a controversial government policy.
6. His speculative investment in cryptocurrency yielded mixed results.
7. The speculative nature of the conspiracy theory raised doubts.
8. The stock market is inherently speculative, with no guarantees.
9. Her speculative guess turned out to be surprisingly accurate.
10. They engaged in speculative discussions about the future of AI.
11. The speculative novel explored alternate dimensions and realities.
12. His speculative theory challenged established scientific beliefs.
13. Speculative fiction often delves into fantastical realms.
14. The decision was made based on purely speculative information.
15. The project's success was contingent on speculative projections.
16. Speculative investments can be high-risk but potentially rewarding.
17. She offered a speculative explanation for the mysterious event.
18. The speculative nature of the plan made investors nervous.
19. His speculative hypothesis required further research and testing.
20. Speculative architecture designs push the boundaries of creativity.
21. Speculative philosophy often explores metaphysical questions.
22. The proposal was met with skepticism due to its speculative nature.
23. Speculative art challenges conventional artistic boundaries.
24. Speculative trading can lead to significant financial losses.
25. The speculative nature of the discussion left room for uncertainty.
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High School 18, SAT 3 (Scholastic Assessment Test), Unclear and Uncertain
abstract,conjectural,hypothetical,notional,putative,tentative,theoretical
imagined,postulated,presumptive,supposed,suppositional
Synonyms for speculative
Quiz categories containing speculative
theoretical, factual, proven, certain
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