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Plural of Hypothesis

What is the plural of hypothesis.

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The standard rules for forming the plurals.

Type Example of Type Forming the Plural Plural
Most Nouns add s
Noun Ending s, sh, ch, x or z add es
Nouns ending [consonant] o add either s or es
(There are no rules for this - you have to know.)
Nouns ending [vowel] o add s
Nouns ending [consonant] y change the y to an i and add es
Nouns ending [vowel] y add s
Nouns ending f or fe ves and/or s
(There are no rules - you have to know.)
Nouns ending is
change the "is" to "es"
Exceptions some nouns undergo a vowel or letters change
More exceptions some nouns do not change at all
Foreign rulings some nouns adopt foreign rulings

Why Is There Confusion over the Plural of Hypothesis?

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Definition of hypothesis

Did you know.

The Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory

A hypothesis is an assumption, an idea that is proposed for the sake of argument so that it can be tested to see if it might be true.

In the scientific method, the hypothesis is constructed before any applicable research has been done, apart from a basic background review. You ask a question, read up on what has been studied before, and then form a hypothesis.

A hypothesis is usually tentative; it's an assumption or suggestion made strictly for the objective of being tested.

A theory , in contrast, is a principle that has been formed as an attempt to explain things that have already been substantiated by data. It is used in the names of a number of principles accepted in the scientific community, such as the Big Bang Theory . Because of the rigors of experimentation and control, it is understood to be more likely to be true than a hypothesis is.

In non-scientific use, however, hypothesis and theory are often used interchangeably to mean simply an idea, speculation, or hunch, with theory being the more common choice.

Since this casual use does away with the distinctions upheld by the scientific community, hypothesis and theory are prone to being wrongly interpreted even when they are encountered in scientific contexts—or at least, contexts that allude to scientific study without making the critical distinction that scientists employ when weighing hypotheses and theories.

The most common occurrence is when theory is interpreted—and sometimes even gleefully seized upon—to mean something having less truth value than other scientific principles. (The word law applies to principles so firmly established that they are almost never questioned, such as the law of gravity.)

This mistake is one of projection: since we use theory in general to mean something lightly speculated, then it's implied that scientists must be talking about the same level of uncertainty when they use theory to refer to their well-tested and reasoned principles.

The distinction has come to the forefront particularly on occasions when the content of science curricula in schools has been challenged—notably, when a school board in Georgia put stickers on textbooks stating that evolution was "a theory, not a fact, regarding the origin of living things." As Kenneth R. Miller, a cell biologist at Brown University, has said , a theory "doesn’t mean a hunch or a guess. A theory is a system of explanations that ties together a whole bunch of facts. It not only explains those facts, but predicts what you ought to find from other observations and experiments.”

While theories are never completely infallible, they form the basis of scientific reasoning because, as Miller said "to the best of our ability, we’ve tested them, and they’ve held up."

  • proposition
  • supposition

hypothesis , theory , law mean a formula derived by inference from scientific data that explains a principle operating in nature.

hypothesis implies insufficient evidence to provide more than a tentative explanation.

theory implies a greater range of evidence and greater likelihood of truth.

law implies a statement of order and relation in nature that has been found to be invariable under the same conditions.

Examples of hypothesis in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hypothesis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Greek, from hypotithenai to put under, suppose, from hypo- + tithenai to put — more at do

1641, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing hypothesis

  • counter - hypothesis
  • nebular hypothesis
  • null hypothesis
  • planetesimal hypothesis
  • Whorfian hypothesis

Articles Related to hypothesis

hypothesis

This is the Difference Between a...

This is the Difference Between a Hypothesis and a Theory

In scientific reasoning, they're two completely different things

Dictionary Entries Near hypothesis

hypothermia

hypothesize

Cite this Entry

“Hypothesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothesis. Accessed 20 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of hypothesis, medical definition, medical definition of hypothesis, more from merriam-webster on hypothesis.

Nglish: Translation of hypothesis for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of hypothesis for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hypothesis

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  • 1.1 Etymology
  • 1.2 Pronunciation
  • 1.3.1 Synonyms
  • 1.3.2 Derived terms
  • 1.3.3 Translations
  • 2.1 Etymology
  • 2.2 Pronunciation
  • 2.3.1 Declension

Recorded since 1596, from Middle French hypothese , from Late Latin hypothesis , from Ancient Greek ὑπόθεσις ( hupóthesis , “ base, basis of an argument, supposition ” , literally “ a placing under ” ) , itself from ὑποτίθημι ( hupotíthēmi , “ I set before, suggest ” ) , from ὑπό ( hupó , “ below ” ) + τίθημι ( títhēmi , “ I put, place ” ) .

Pronunciation

  • ( UK ) IPA ( key ) : /haɪˈpɒθɪsɪs/ , /hɪˈpɒθɪsɪs/ , /həˈpɒθɪsɪs/ , /-əsəs/ , /-əsɪs/
  • ( US ) IPA ( key ) : /haɪˈpɑː.θə.sɪs/
Audio ( ): ( )

hypothesis ( plural hypotheses )

  • 2001 September 27, Terrie E. Moffitt, Avshalom Caspi, Michael Rutter, Phil A. Silva, Sex Differences in Antisocial Behaviour: Conduct Disorder, Delinquency, and Violence in the Dunedin Longitudinal Study ‎ [1] , Cambridge University Press , →ISBN , page 151 : This hypothesis goes by many names, including group resistence, the threshold effect, and the gender paradox. Because the hypothesis holds such wide appeal, it is worth revisiting the logic behind it. The hypothesis is built on the factual observation that fewer females than males act antisocially.
  • 2005 , Ronald H. Pine, http://www.csicop.org/specialarticles/show/intelligent_design_or_no_model_creationism , 15 October 2005: Far too many of us have been taught in school that a scientist, in the course of trying to figure something out, will first come up with a " hypothesis " (a guess or surmise—not necessarily even an "educated" guess). ... [But t]he word " hypothesis " should be used, in science, exclusively for a reasoned, sensible, knowledge-informed explanation for why some phenomenon exists or occurs. An hypothesis can be as yet untested; can have already been tested; may have been falsified; may have not yet been falsified, although tested; or may have been tested in a myriad of ways countless times without being falsified; and it may come to be universally accepted by the scientific community. An understanding of the word " hypothesis ," as used in science, requires a grasp of the principles underlying Occam's Razor and Karl Popper's thought in regard to " falsifiability "—including the notion that any respectable scientific hypothesis must, in principle, be "capable of" being proven wrong (if it should, in fact, just happen to be wrong), but none can ever be proved to be true. One aspect of a proper understanding of the word " hypothesis ," as used in science, is that only a vanishingly small percentage of hypotheses could ever potentially become a theory.
  • ( general ) An assumption taken to be true for the purpose of argument or investigation .
  • ( grammar ) The antecedent of a conditional statement .
  • supposition
  • educated guess
  • See also Thesaurus:supposition

Derived terms

  • alternative hypothesis
  • aquatic ape hypothesis
  • Avogadro's hypothesis
  • conspiracy hypothesis
  • continuum hypothesis
  • cosmic censorship hypothesis
  • critical brain hypothesis
  • documentary hypothesis
  • efficient market hypothesis
  • ergodic hypothesis
  • expectations hypothesis
  • Fisher hypothesis
  • Gaia hypothesis
  • generalized continuum hypothesis
  • God hypothesis
  • Griesbach hypothesis
  • hypothesize
  • hypothetical
  • hypothetically
  • induction hypothesis
  • inductive hypothesis
  • interface hypothesis
  • just-world hypothesis
  • level-ordering hypothesis
  • mafia hypothesis
  • Medea hypothesis
  • Monro-Kellie hypothesis
  • null hypothesis
  • Omphalos hypothesis
  • Out of India hypothesis
  • ovulatory shift hypothesis
  • permanent income hypothesis
  • Prout's hypothesis
  • Rare Earth hypothesis
  • Red Queen hypothesis
  • Riemann hypothesis
  • Sapir-Whorf hypothesis
  • Schinzel's hypothesis H
  • sexy son hypothesis
  • simulation hypothesis
  • swoon hypothesis
  • trickle-down hypothesis
  • trickle down hypothesis
  • Wellhausen's hypothesis
  • working hypothesis
  • zombie hypothesis

Translations

        (farḍiyya)   (varkac),   (hipotʻez) ,   (hipóteza),   (prypuščénnje)   (onukolpo)     (hipotéza)     (gaa syut ), (gaa cit ), (gaa ding )   (jiǎshuō),   (jiǎshè),   (jiǎdìng)     ,             ,                   (hiṗoteza)         (ypóthesi)   (hipotezá),     (hash'ará)     (parikalpanā)                 (かせつ, kasetsu) (gipoteza),   (boljam)   (sɑmmaʼtekam)   (gaseol) (grîmane) ,   (gipoteza)   (som mut ti thān)             (hipotéza)     (taamaglal), (gipotez)           (farzya)   (farziye),   (engâšte),   (pendâšte)     ,                 (gipóteza),     (predpoložénije)         ,             , (farziya), (gipoteza) (gipoteza)   (sǒm-mút-dtì-tǎan)   ,   ,     (hipóteza),   (prypúščennja),   (zasnóvok)   (farziyā) (gipotëza)   ,     ( )
  (prypuščénnje)     (predpoložénie)       (jiǎshè),   (jiǎdìng),   (jiǎshuō),   (qiántí)     ,           ,     ,   ,               (hanakhá)   ,         (かてい, katei)   (gajeong) (grîmane) (takdir)             ,         (predpoložénije),     (gipóteza)           (prypúščennja)   ,  
      (jiǎshè)               (gajeongbeop)            
)     )     , )   , )   )   (farziye), )   (negare) )     )     )  

Borrowed from Ancient Greek ὑπόθεσις ( hupóthesis , “ hypothesis ” , noun ) .

  • ( Classical Latin ) IPA ( key ) : /hyˈpo.tʰe.sis/ , [hʏˈpɔt̪ʰɛs̠ɪs̠]
  • ( modern Italianate Ecclesiastical ) IPA ( key ) : /iˈpo.te.sis/ , [iˈpɔːt̪es̬is]

hypothesis   f ( genitive hypothesis or hypotheseōs or hypothesios ) ; third declension

Case Singular Plural









1 Found sometimes in Medieval and New Latin.

  • There is also genitive plural hypotheseōn .
  • The genitive singular is also spelled hypotheseωs and the genitive plural hypotheseωn .

singular form of the word hypothesis

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singular form of the word hypothesis

What is the Plural of Hypothesis?

past tense for

What is the plural form of the word "hypothesis"? The plural form (meaning multiples) of the base word "hypothesis" is "hypotheses." Nouns can identify places, people, animals, and other things. They are the basic materials required to construct sentences. There are different types of nouns , including proper nouns , common nouns , compound nouns , collective nouns , abstract nouns , and countable and uncountable nouns.

What is the plural of Hypothesis?

The plural form of the word "hypothesis" is "hypotheses". Forming plural nouns can be difficult. To form the plural form of the word, you'll base it on the last letter or last two letters of the singular word form.

The word "hypothesis" is considered a common noun .

Sentence examples for the plural of "Hypothesis"

  • Example 1: There are multiple hypotheses.
  • Example 2: I can see multiple hypotheses.
  • Example 3: Over there could be more hypotheses.

For more examples, see the definition of the word hypothesis .

My experience with plural forms...

When it comes to plural forms, I was always confused! Just like you, I would be looking up the singular words plural formation...

Here are some really simple tricks that helps me remember plural forms:

  • Did you know that most plurals are formed by adding an -s to the end of the word? Yes!
  • If the noun ends in a consonant plus "–y," form the plural by swapping the "–y" for "–ies."
  • If the noun ends in "–ch," "-s," "-sh," "-x," or "-z," form the plural by adding "–es."

singular form of the word hypothesis

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singular form of the word hypothesis

About the author

Dalia Y.: Dalia is an English Major and linguistics expert with an additional degree in Psychology. Dalia has featured articles on Forbes, Inc, Fast Company, Grammarly, and many more. She covers English, ESL, and all things grammar on GrammarBrain.

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singular form of the word hypothesis

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"What's the plural of hypothesis?"

The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses .

Definition of hypothesis:

A supposition or assumption based on limited evidence which has yet to be proven or disproven.

Is 'Hypothesis' Plural or Singular?

The plural form of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses." This is because "hypothesis" is a Greek-derived word that follows the rules for forming plurals of Greek-derived words.

In general, Greek-derived words that end in "-is" form the plural by changing the ending to "-es."

The plural of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses" because it is a borrowed word from the Greek language, and it follows the rules of Greek grammar for forming the plural.

In Greek, the plural of "hupothesis," the Greek word from which "hypothesis" is derived, is "hupotheses."

Other examples of Greek-derived words that follow this pattern include "analysis" (singular) and "analyses" (plural), "crisis" (singular) and "crises" (plural), and "thesis" (singular) and "theses" (plural).

The word "hypothesis" comes from the Greek word "hypothesis," which means "base," "foundation," or "assumption."

In scientific contexts, hypotheses are educated guesses or proposed explanations for a phenomenon that is based on limited evidence and is used as a starting point for further investigation.

Plural of Hypothesis Example Sentences

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between the singular and plural forms of the word "hypothesis":

Singular: " A hypothesis has been proposed to explain the sudden increase in the number of earthquakes in the region" .

Plural: " Two hypotheses have been proposed to explain the sudden increase in the number of earthquakes in the region. One suggests that the earthquakes are caused by tectonic activity, while the other suggests that they are caused by the injection of wastewater into the ground" .

Singular: " The hypothesis that the Earth is flat has been debunked by scientific evidence" .

Plural: " There are many hypotheses about the origins of the universe, but the most widely accepted one is the Big Bang theory" .

Throughout history multiple hypotheses were put forward to explain why objects tended to fall to Earth when dropped. The Greeks believed it was because the Earth was the center of the Universe.

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothesis

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The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses

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What’s the Plural of Hypothesis?

  • November 19, 2022

singular form of the word hypothesis

The plural of “hypothesis”

  • The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses (sounds like hi-paw-thuh-sea s).
  • Hypotheses is the only recognized plural of hypothesis .

What’s with the word hypothesis , and why does it behave the way it does from its singular to plural form? Keep reading.

The correct use of hypotheses (plural) in setences.

What’s the meaning of hypothesis?

Hypothesis comes from the Greek word of the same spelling,  hypothesis , meaning, “base, groundwork, foundation”. Hypothesis is made up of the Greek root words, hypo + thesis : “ hypo ” meaning “under” or “placing under”; “ thesis “, meaning “a placing, proposition”, (from Etymonline ).

So, based on the noun’s construction, hypothesis means to put or set forward a thesis or proposal to be subject to further investigating. According to Wikipedia , hypotheses are:

Tentative conjectures explaining an observation, phenomenon or scientific problem that can be tested by further observation, investigation and/or experimentation. Wikipedia on the word hypothesis.

Why is “hypotheses” plural for “hypothesis”?

"Hypothesis" (singular) in sentence examples.

Lots of people confuse the plural of hypothesis , and it’s not tough to see why: hypothesis is an irregular plural noun form that omits the -s/-es of regular plural nouns . Apart from this, the way hypothesis modifies from singular to plural effectively changes the spelling and pronunciation of the word by substituting the -sis as a singular to – ses plural.

Most nouns add an -s/-es to denote plural. Hypothesis , and similar sounding nouns such as crisis , thesis , oasis , nemesis , diagnosis , analysis and so on, all change to -ses in their plural forms.

Nouns that end in “sis”

Each of these irregular plural nouns have another thing in common: they’re all Greek words that use Greek suffixes.  So, in case you didn’t know, we all speak a bit of Greek.

crises
hypothesishypotheses

Examples of “hypothesis” (singular) in sentences

Other chemists rejected his hypothesis .
What we need is a general hypothesis to explain merger waves.
Their hypothesis is that watching excessive amounts of television reduces a person’s ability to concentrate.
The results of the experiment did not support his hypothesis .
She wrote something to summarize her hypothesis .

Examples of “hypotheses” (plural) in sentences

It will be evident that no direct record of this evolution can be expected, and recourse must be had to hypotheses founded on the indirect evidence available.
The hypotheses which carried it back to the early years of the Christian era have been wholly abandoned.
Various hypotheses have been put forward to explain this increase.
In the above work we have a combination of the redaction and sources hypotheses .
Such hypotheses attend to Aristotle’s philosophy to the neglect of his life.

Synonyms of “hypothesis”

  • supposition
  • proposition
  • explanation
  • interpretation

Read about other irregular plurals

  • What’s the plural of bison?
  • What’s the plural of moose?
  • What’s the plural of sheep?
  • What’s the plural of ox?
  • What’s the plural of cactus?
  • What’s the plural of crisis?

Origin of “hypothesis”

From etymonline:

1590s, “a particular statement;” 1650s, “a proposition, assumed and taken for granted, used as a premise,” from French hypothese and directly from Late Latin hypothesis , from Greek hypothesis .
  • Wikipedia hypothesis.
  • Synonyms for hypothesis.
  • Hypotheses sentence examples.
  • Origin of hypothesis.

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Whats the Plural of Hypothesis: Understanding Grammatical Number

Hypothesis Whats the Plural of Hypothesis: Understanding Grammatical Number

  • The word “hypotheses” is the plural form of “hypothesis.”
  • “Hypothesis” and “hypotheses” are used to propose explanations for phenomena, with usage depending on the number.
  • The origin of “hypothesis” traces back to Greek, affecting its pluralization in English.

In the most straightforward terms, the plural of “hypothesis” is “hypotheses.” This transformation follows a specific pattern seen in words that end in “-is,” with the “-is” changing to “-es” to form the plural. Understanding the correct use of the singular and plural forms is fundamental for both written and spoken English, especially within academic and scientific contexts where the word is frequently employed.

Table of Contents

What’s the Plural of “Hypothesis”?

Singular to Plural Transformation

The transformation from singular to plural for the word “hypothesis” involves altering the ending of the word:

  • Change the “is” to “es”
  • This results in the plural form “hypotheses”

Pronunciation

The plural form is pronounced as “hī-ˈpä-thə-ˌsēz.” It’s essential to note that the difference is not just in spelling but also in pronunciation.

Usage of Hypothesis and Hypotheses

Here is a simple breakdown of when to use each form:

Singular (Hypothesis)Plural (Hypotheses)
Refers to one assumption or proposed explanationRefers to two or more assumptions or proposed explanations

Examples in Sentences

  • Singular : The scientist tested the hypothesis to see if it was valid.
  • Plural : After many experiments, all the hypotheses were evaluated for accuracy.

What’s the Singular of Hypothesis?

The singular form of hypothesis is “hypothesis.” To assist in understanding, consider the following tables:

TermDefinition
HypothesisA statement or idea to be tested through scientific method

Another table illustrating the usage in a sentence:

Sentence Usage
“The scientist formulated a about the cause of the phenomenon.”

Here are key points to remember about the term “hypothesis”:

  • It is the singular form used when referring to one proposed explanation.
  • A hypothesis can later become a theory if it is supported by substantial evidence.
  • In the realm of science, it is a statement subject to verification or falsification through research.

Defining the Word “Hypothesis”

The term hypothesis originates from the Greek word meaning base or foundation . It is commonly understood as a starting point for scientific inquiry, a proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation. In its essence, a hypothesis is a tentative assumption designed to test its logical or empirical consequences.

In scientific reasoning, a hypothesis serves as a provisional idea whose merit requires evaluation. It is not just a wild guess, but an informed conjecture that sets the stage for experimentation and observation.

Key Attributes of a Hypothesis:

  • Conjectural : A hypothesis is an educated guess about the relationship between two or more variables.
  • Testable : It must be possible to prove that the hypothesis is true or false through evidence.
  • Predictive : A hypothesis should make predictions that can be verified through testing.
  • Falsifiable : To be scientific, a hypothesis must be structured in a way that it can be refuted by evidence.

Hypothesis in Conditional Statements:

Part of Conditional StatementRole of Hypothesis
Antecedent (If clause)Contains the hypothesis
Consequent (Then clause)Outcome or prediction

For example, in the statement “If molecules are exposed to higher temperatures, then their kinetic energy will increase,” the hypothesis is that higher temperatures affect molecular kinetic energy.

Hypothesis (Singular) Used in Sentences

Examples in Sentences:

  • The scientist formulated a hypothesis about the effect of light on plant growth.
  • After analyzing the data, she presented her hypothesis concerning the animals’ migration patterns.
  • His hypothesis that increased sunlight would enhance energy efficiency remains to be tested.
  • In her thesis, the hypothesis revolved around the impact of social media on communication skills.
  • It is key for a hypothesis to be clear and concise for it to lead to meaningful scientific investigation.
Structure of a Sentence with “Hypothesis”Example
He a hypothesis.
The hypothesis a potential solution.

Regarding the use of “hypothesis” in academic writing, it is important to:

  • Identify the key variable : Highlight what the hypothesis is specifically attempting to test or predict.
  • State the expected outcome : Clarify the predicted result or effect that the hypothesis addresses.
Key Component of HypothesisAs Used in a Sentence
The hypothesis focused on the variable of classroom size.
Her hypothesis anticipated a positive outcome from the new diet.

Tips for crafting a hypothesis :

  • Keep it simple and testable.
  • Ensure it is backed by existing literature and theories when applicable.
  • Tailor it to be specific , addressing a particular phenomenon or set of data.
  • A hypothesis must be falsifiable ; that is, it must be phrased in a way that makes it possible to reject if it is not true.
  • Avoid complex jargon when constructing a hypothesis; clarity ensures that others can understand and test it.
  • Remember, a hypothesis is not a question, but rather a statement that reflects what the researcher believes to be true.

Hypotheses (Plural) Used in Sentences

In the realm of research, it’s common to encounter:

SingularPlural
hypothesishypotheses

Example Sentences:

  • The scientists reviewed several competing hypotheses before commencing their experiment.
  • Their hypotheses centered on the potential effects of climate change on marine biodiversity.
  • During the symposium, the researcher explained her methods for testing the various hypotheses .

Using “hypotheses” precisely:

  • Clarity : Each of the hypotheses represented a possible explanation for the phenomenon observed.
  • Context : In scientific discussions, it’s paramount to present hypotheses in a structured manner.
  • Comparison : The study contrasted traditional hypotheses with innovative conjectures emerging in the field.

In day-to-day language or teaching scenarios, one might encounter scenarios such as:

  • The teacher asked the students to write down their own hypotheses about the outcome of the chemical reaction.
  • The book included several interesting hypotheses about the origins of language.

Origin of the Word “Hypothesis”

Ancient Greek is the initial source of the word “hypothesis.” Specifically, it derives from two Greek words: “ὑπό” meaning ‘under,’ and “θέσις” meaning ‘a placing’ or ‘proposition.’ The combination of these elements resulted in “ὑπόθεσις” (hypothesis), signifying ‘a placing under’ or ‘foundation’.

Greek OriginMeaning
ὑπό (hypo)below, under
θέσις (thesis)placing, setting

Transitioning into Late Latin , the term “ hypothesis ” maintained its original Greek meaning. By the time it reached the Middle French , as “hypothese,” it was already well-incorporated into the lexicon of scientific and philosophical discourse.

Language EvolutionForm
Late Latinhypothesis
Middle Frenchhypothese

In English, “hypothesis” retains the essence of its Greek origins: a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, a foundation for further investigation, or a premise to be tested.

Key Developments :

  • Integral to scientific method
  • Used academically to propose theories

To construct the plural form of “hypothesis,” English follows a standard pattern seen with words ending in ‘-is.’

  • Singular: hypothesis
  • Plural: hypotheses

Usage in English implies not just a simple carrying over of a term, but an adaptation of the concept it represents — underpinning the advancement of knowledge, it supports theoretical frameworks and empirical research.

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My name is Khamis Maiouf. I am the creator of the English Teacher Site, dedicated to providing valuable resources and insights for students around the world. With a passion for education and a commitment to helping students enhance their skills, I aim to make English teaching more effective and enjoyable for both educators and students.

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The Plural of Hypothesis: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

Ever get stuck wondering what the plural form of hypothesis is in English? Perfect! This article will tell you just that plus give more facts about the word hypothesis, synonyms like a thesaurus, examples, and the history of the word. You will no doubt be an expert on all things surrounding the word hypothesis by the end of this article.

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What Is The Definition Of Hypothesis

As found in the Meriam Webster Dictionary 

  • An assumption or concession made for the sake of argument
  • an interpretation of a practical situation or condition taken as the ground for action
  • a tentative assumption made in order to draw out and test its logical or empirical consequences
  • the antecedent clause of a conditional statement

As found in the Cambridge Dictionary

  • an idea or explanation for something that is based on known facts but has not yet been proved: several hypotheses for global warming have been suggested.

In “The Origin of Hypothesis” it is phrased as a ‘scientific guess’. In the context of science, a hypothesis is a placeholder for a theory until it is proven by science to be accurate.

A scientific hypothesis sed to explain something occurring in our universe that currently does not fit into our current available scientific theories. Scientific hypotheses also include null hypothesis, working hypothesis, and alternative hypothesis. 

History and Origin of The Word

From the Greek hypotithenai to put under, suppose, from hypo- + tithenai to put. The first use of the word hypothesis can be traced back to 1596. Issac Newton actually rejected the hypothesis, he said “Hypotheses non fingo” which translates to “I Frame no hypotheses”. This was back in 1721 in Issac Newton’s book “Opticks, or A Treatise of the Reflections, Refractions, Inflections, and Colours of Light”

What Is More Than One Hypothesis Called?

The plural form of the hypothesis is hypotheses. This is the only way in the English language to make hypothesis plural. Because of the Greek origin, the rule of making a noun that ends in “is” to change it to “es.”

  • Assumption – Something taken for granted
  • Postulate- suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of (something) as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or belief
  • Rationale – Logic for belief, action
  • Previous observations- things that were seen or experienced in the past
  • Supposition – guess, belief
  • Theorem – explanation based on hypothesis and experiments done by experimenters using the scientific method
  • Thesis – belief, assumption to be tested
  • Conjecture – speculation, assumption
  • Conclusion – end
  • Tentative Explanation – clarification; reason
  • Guess – belief, speculation 
  • Interpretation – understanding
  • Premise – hypothesis, argument

What Is The Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory?

Since we now know that a hypothesis is a guess or assumption, how is that different from a theory? The definition of a theory is “a supposition or system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained”. 

Although we might think of a theory as something that has not been 100% proven, its definition in the application of science is something that has been tested as an explanation for things occurring. It is still an explanation that is thought of as true until proven otherwise, the difference here is that a hypothesis is thought to explain something not yet tested and could also be thought of as an unproved theory or suggested explanation.

Follow these examples to see the difference in action:

  • Fact: “The clouds are dark outside.” 
  • Hypothesis: “It might storm today.”
  • Theory: “Rain clouds are dark because of their particulate density. The denser the water droplets are in the cloud the more light will be scattered, which will lead to a darker appearance.”
  • Fact: “Light roast coffee has more caffeine than dark roast coffee”
  • Hypothesis: “I should drink a cup of light roast coffee if I want more caffeine”
  • Theory: “During the roasting process caffeine is slowly burned off, therefore it is true that light roast coffee has more caffeine. You should however choose dark roast if you want more caffeine per cup because although per bean light roast has more caffeine, per gram of coffee dark roast contains more caffeine. This is because you have to consider the percent of weight loss that occurs with roasting a coffee to a dark level, which is higher than the percent of caffeine lost, therefore you have more caffeine per gram in dark roast over light roast, only by a minuscule amount.”

What Is The Difference Between An Idea and Hypothesis?

Since a hypothesis is an idea that can be tested, here are some examples of what is just an idea and can’t be tested followed by a similar idea that can be tested and is a hypothesis.

  • Idea: Biden would be a better president vs Trump – Can not be tested since we have no data. 
  • Hypothesis: Obama did a better job at fixing unemployment vs Bush – can be tested by looking at the data.
  • Idea: I could have been the best disc golfer if I started playing when I was a kid – Impossible to test
  • Hypothesis: Paul McBeth probably hit more circle 2 putts on tour last year than Ricky Wysocki. – Can be proven by looking at the data for all their putts on the PDGA tour last year.

Example Sentences In Context

The following are examples of hypothesis in context:

“We came up with the assumptions and then narrowed them down to one hypothesis for each category.” – Forbes

“The notion of hypothesis testing has recently invaded the practice of entrepreneurship as a tool to construct of new ventures” – Forbes

“There’s not one unifying hypothesis as to why, but there’s probably five to 20 different things that have contributed to it.” – USA Today

“Most thinkers or hypothesists of any degree of sobriety allow, that an hypothesis…is not to be received as probably true because it accounts for all the known phenomena since this is a condition sometimes fulfilled tolerably well by two conflicting hypotheses…while there are probably a thousand more which are equally possible, but which, for want of anything analogous in our experience, our minds are unfitted to conceive” – Underdetermination of Scientific Theory

“The expensive tissue hypothesis was focused on human brains and it was never intended as a one-size-fits-all possible explanation that applied across all mammals. The original paper even said that “the cost of the additional brain tissue could have been met by strategies other than a reduction in gut size.” – National Geographic

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Definition of hypothesis noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

  • formulate/advance a theory/hypothesis
  • build/construct/create/develop a simple/theoretical/mathematical model
  • develop/establish/provide/use a theoretical/conceptual framework/an algorithm
  • advance/argue/develop the thesis that…
  • explore an idea/a concept/a hypothesis
  • make a prediction/an inference
  • base a prediction/your calculations on something
  • investigate/evaluate/accept/challenge/reject a theory/hypothesis/model
  • design an experiment/a questionnaire/a study/a test
  • do research/an experiment/an analysis
  • make observations/calculations
  • take/record measurements
  • carry out/conduct/perform an experiment/a test/a longitudinal study/observations/clinical trials
  • run an experiment/a simulation/clinical trials
  • repeat an experiment/a test/an analysis
  • replicate a study/the results/the findings
  • observe/study/examine/investigate/assess a pattern/a process/a behavior
  • fund/support the research/project/study
  • seek/provide/get/secure funding for research
  • collect/gather/extract data/information
  • yield data/evidence/similar findings/the same results
  • analyze/examine the data/soil samples/a specimen
  • consider/compare/interpret the results/findings
  • fit the data/model
  • confirm/support/verify a prediction/a hypothesis/the results/the findings
  • prove a conjecture/hypothesis/theorem
  • draw/make/reach the same conclusions
  • read/review the records/literature
  • describe/report an experiment/a study
  • present/publish/summarize the results/findings
  • present/publish/read/review/cite a paper in a scientific journal

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Look up any word in the dictionary offline, anytime, anywhere with the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

singular form of the word hypothesis

A Comprehensive Analysis of The Plural Forms of Hypothesis

“Hypothesis” is often a word that sends shivers down the spines of students and makes professors’ eyes light up. Maybe because it has a fancy Greek root (“hypo” = under, “thesis” = placing). And the plural is not as straightforward as adding an “s” at the end.

No, no, no. We’re dealing with a word that loves to keep things interesting. Gladly, this article is about to crack this nut open like a science experiment.

READ ALSO:  Analyzing The Plural of Analysis; A Comprehensive Guide

  • 0.1 Now, here’s the deal
  • 0.2 You need to understand this
  • 0.3 Now, here’s the thing
  • 0.4 A closer look at the verdict
  • 0.5 Now, let’s get creative with some examples
  • 1 Final Thoughts

Now, here’s the deal

The usual suspect for the plural of “hypothesis” is “hypotheses”. Yes, just add that “-es” ending and you’re good to go. Most dictionaries will give you this as the go-to plural form, and it’s perfectly acceptable in most situations.

You can confidently say things like, “The researchers tested several hypotheses” or “My cat has a million hypotheses about where his missing yarn ball went.”

You need to understand this

Just like a good scientific study, we gotta consider alternative explanations. See, “hypothesis” comes from Greek, and in Greek, there’s this whole other way of making plurals for words ending in “-sis.”

It involves adding “-ses” instead of “-es.” Some folks, especially those with a deep love for the classics, prefer to stick to this Greek-y plural form.

So, you might encounter “hypotheseses” in academic writing or among language enthusiasts.

READ ALSO:  Abbreviating Continued; What You Need To Know

Now, here’s the thing

While “hypotheseses” is technically correct, it’s not exactly common in everyday speech. It can sound a bit stuffy like you’re trying to show off your fancy vocabulary.

Unless you’re writing a dissertation on ancient Greek grammar, “hypotheses” is the safer bet. But,  if you’re feeling fly and want to impress your professor with your linguistic prowess, go for it!

Just be prepared for some raised eyebrows and maybe even a chuckle or two.

A closer look at the verdict

Ultimately, the choice is yours, my friend.

Whether you stick to the classic “hypotheses” or take a walk on the wild side with “hypotheseses,” just remember: the important thing is to understand the concept behind the pluralization and to use it with confidence.

Now, let’s get creative with some examples

How can we use the plural of hypothesis in a sentence without getting some raised eyebrow?

READ ALSO:  Exploring The Differences Between Heros and Heroes

Here are a few examples :

“The scientist’s mind buzzed with a swarm of hypotheses, each vying for dominance in the petri dish of her imagination.” “The artist stared at the blank canvas, her brush poised like a question mark, ready to give birth to a constellation of hypotheses.”

Did you see how the plural form adds a touch of intrigue, a hint of possibility, to the scene? It’s like sprinkling magic dust on your writing, transforming it from a dull monologue to a vibrant, multi-faceted dialogue.

Final Thoughts

Now you have it! The plural of “hypothesis” laid bare. It is time to go forth and spread your newfound knowledge, one hypothesis (or maybe even hypotheseses) at a time!

The goal is to clearly reach out to your audience without flooding your writing or sentences with grammatical errors.

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hypothesis noun

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What does the noun hypothesis mean?

There are seven meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun hypothesis , two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Entry status

OED is undergoing a continuous programme of revision to modernize and improve definitions. This entry has not yet been fully revised.

How common is the noun hypothesis ?

How is the noun hypothesis pronounced?

British english, u.s. english, where does the noun hypothesis come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun hypothesis is in the late 1500s.

OED's earliest evidence for hypothesis is from 1596, in the writing of Earl of Essex.

hypothesis is a borrowing from Greek .

Etymons: Greek ὑπόθεσις .

Nearby entries

  • hypothecarious, adj. 1726–
  • hypothecary, adj. 1656–
  • hypothecate, v. 1693–
  • hypothecation, n. 1681–
  • hypothecative, adj. 1856–
  • hypothecator, n. 1828–
  • hypothecium, n. 1866–
  • hypothenar, adj. 1706–
  • hypothermia, n. 1886–
  • hypothermic, adj. 1898–
  • hypothesis, n. 1596–
  • hypothesist, n. 1788–
  • hypothesize, v. 1738–
  • hypothesizer, n. 1833–
  • hypothetic, adj. & n. a1680–
  • hypothetical, adj. & n. 1588–
  • hypothetically, adv. 1628–
  • hypothetico-deductive, adj. 1912–
  • hypothetico-deductively, adv. 1953–
  • hypothetico-disjunctive, adj. & n. a1856–
  • hypothetist, n. 1852–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for hypothesis, n..

hypothesis, n. was first published in 1899; not yet revised.

hypothesis, n. was last modified in September 2024.

Revision of the OED is a long-term project. Entries in oed.com which have not been revised may include:

  • corrections and revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
  • new senses, phrases, and quotations which have been added in subsequent print and online updates.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into hypothesis, n. in September 2024.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1899)

  • Find out more

OED Second Edition (1989)

  • View hypothesis in OED Second Edition

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Plural of hypothesis

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Singular: hypothesis

Plural: hypotheses

What is the verb form of 'hypothesis'? Hypothesize

hypotheses' plural possesive

hypothesis's possesive

The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses .

Hypotheses.

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What is the plural of hypothesis?

The plural word for hypothesis is hypotheses.

Plural form of hypothesis?

it's theses: pronounced (thee-sees)

Is reaction uncountable noun?

No, the noun reaction is a count noun, the plural form is reactions. examples: The reactions produced are consistent and validate the hypothesis.

What is the meaning of hypothisis?

IT IS A THEORY OR PREDICATION TO ASK QUESTIONS AND EXPLORE OPTIONS an example am I on a planet with a positive gravity I have a hypothesis that i am so to test this I drop an object and if it hits the ground then my hypothesis is valid if it floats in air then it is not valid and I have to rethink my hypothesis

What is a simple definition for hypothesis?

A hypothesis is an idea or a suggestion, often to explain something whose cause is unknown.In formal science, a hypothesis is a testable statement. Performing an experiment to test the statement should either support the hypothesis or prove it false.A hypothesis is an educated guess for the outcome of your experiment (for the solution of your problem)

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singular form of the word hypothesis

Pronunciation

  • IPA ( key ) : /haɪˈpɒθɪsɪs/
Audio (US) ( )



  • ( countable ) A hypothesis is a guess about what will happen, usually in scientific experiments . We will test the hypothesis that the change will have no effect. The results of the experiment support the hypothesis .
  • ( uncountable ) A guess with no evidence to support it. This idea is purely a hypothesis . It has not been proven
  • speculation

singular form of the word hypothesis

  • Countable nouns
  • Uncountable nouns
  • Unexpected parameter in audio template

Cambridge Dictionary

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Meaning of hypothesis in English

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  • abstraction
  • accepted wisdom
  • afterthought
  • anthropocentrism
  • determinist
  • non-dogmatic
  • non-empirical
  • social Darwinism
  • supersensible
  • the domino theory

hypothesis | Intermediate English

Hypothesis | business english, examples of hypothesis, translations of hypothesis.

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  • hypothesis (noun)
  • Other chemists rejected his hypothesis .
  • put forward a hypothesis = advance a hypothesis
  • Their hypothesis is that watching excessive amounts of television reduces a person's ability to concentrate.
  • The results of the experiment did not support/confirm his hypothesis .
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What is a Hypothesis?

Mr Edwards

Table of Contents

Defining the hypothesis, the role of a hypothesis in the scientific method, types of hypotheses, hypothesis formulation, hypotheses and variables.

  • The Importance of Testing Hypotheses
  • The Hypothesis and Sociological Theory

In sociology, as in other scientific disciplines, the hypothesis serves as a crucial building block for research. It is a central element that directs the inquiry and provides a framework for testing the relationships between social phenomena. This article will explore what a hypothesis is, how it is formulated, and its role within the broader scientific method. By understanding the hypothesis, students of sociology can grasp how sociologists construct and test theories about the social world.

A hypothesis is a specific, testable statement about the relationship between two or more variables. It acts as a proposed explanation or prediction based on limited evidence, which researchers then test through empirical investigation. In essence, it is a statement that can be supported or refuted by data gathered from observation, experimentation, or other forms of systematic inquiry. The hypothesis typically takes the form of an “if-then” statement: if one variable changes, then another will change in response.

In sociological research, a hypothesis helps to focus the investigation by offering a clear proposition that can be tested. For instance, a sociologist might hypothesize that an increase in education levels leads to a decrease in crime rates. This hypothesis gives the researcher a direction, guiding them to collect data on education and crime, and analyze the relationship between the two variables. By doing so, the hypothesis serves as a tool for making sense of complex social phenomena.

The hypothesis is a key component of the scientific method, which is the systematic process by which sociologists and other scientists investigate the world. The scientific method begins with an observation of the world, followed by the formulation of a question or problem. Based on prior knowledge, theory, or preliminary observations, researchers then develop a hypothesis, which predicts an outcome or proposes a relationship between variables.

Once a hypothesis is established, researchers gather data to test it. If the data supports the hypothesis, it may be used to build a broader theory or to further refine the understanding of the social phenomenon in question. If the data contradicts the hypothesis, researchers may revise their hypothesis or abandon it altogether, depending on the strength of the evidence. In either case, the hypothesis helps to organize the research process, ensuring that it remains focused and methodologically sound.

In sociology, this method is particularly important because the social world is highly complex. Researchers must navigate a vast range of variables—age, gender, class, race, education, and countless others—that interact in unpredictable ways. A well-constructed hypothesis allows sociologists to narrow their focus to a manageable set of variables, making the investigation more precise and efficient.

Sociologists use different types of hypotheses, depending on the nature of their research question and the methods they plan to use. Broadly speaking, hypotheses can be classified into two main types: null hypotheses and alternative (or research) hypotheses.

Null Hypothesis

The null hypothesis, denoted as H0, states that there is no relationship between the variables being studied. It is a default assumption that any observed differences or relationships are due to random chance rather than a real underlying cause. In research, the null hypothesis serves as a point of comparison. Researchers collect data to see if the results allow them to reject the null hypothesis in favor of an alternative explanation.

For example, a sociologist studying the relationship between income and political participation might propose a null hypothesis that income has no effect on political participation. The goal of the research would then be to determine whether this null hypothesis can be rejected based on the data. If the data shows a significant correlation between income and political participation, the null hypothesis would be rejected.

Alternative Hypothesis

The alternative hypothesis, denoted as H1 or Ha, proposes that there is a significant relationship between the variables. This is the hypothesis that researchers aim to support with their data. In contrast to the null hypothesis, the alternative hypothesis predicts a specific direction or effect. For example, a researcher might hypothesize that higher levels of education lead to greater political engagement. In this case, the alternative hypothesis is proposing a positive correlation between the two variables.

The alternative hypothesis is the one that guides the research design, as it directs the researcher toward gathering evidence that will either support or refute the predicted relationship. The research process is structured around testing this hypothesis and determining whether the evidence is strong enough to reject the null hypothesis.

The process of formulating a hypothesis is both an art and a science. It requires a deep understanding of the social phenomena under investigation, as well as a clear sense of what is possible to observe and measure. Hypothesis formulation is closely linked to the theoretical framework that guides the research. Sociologists draw on existing theories to generate hypotheses, ensuring that their predictions are grounded in established knowledge.

To formulate a good hypothesis, a researcher must identify the key variables and determine how they are expected to relate to one another. Variables are the factors or characteristics that are being measured in a study. In sociology, these variables often include social attributes such as class, race, gender, age, education, and income, as well as behavioral variables like voting, criminal activity, or social participation.

For example, a sociologist studying the effects of social media on self-esteem might propose the following hypothesis: “Increased time spent on social media leads to lower levels of self-esteem among adolescents.” Here, the independent variable is the time spent on social media, and the dependent variable is the level of self-esteem. The hypothesis predicts a negative relationship between the two variables: as time spent on social media increases, self-esteem decreases.

A strong hypothesis has several key characteristics. It should be clear and specific, meaning that it unambiguously states the relationship between the variables. It should also be testable, meaning that it can be supported or refuted through empirical investigation. Finally, it should be grounded in theory, meaning that it is based on existing knowledge about the social phenomenon in question.

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Mr Edwards has a PhD in sociology and 10 years of experience in sociological knowledge

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COMMENTS

  1. The Plural of Hypothesis

    The plural of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses." Scientists base scientific hypotheses on previous observations that cannot be explained with the available scientific theories. Experimenters may test and reject several hypotheses before solving a problem. The noun "hypothesis" has a Greek root, which is the derivation of the plural "hypotheses."

  2. Hypothesis Definition & Meaning

    The meaning of HYPOTHESIS is an assumption or concession made for the sake of argument. How to use hypothesis in a sentence. The Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory Synonym Discussion of Hypothesis.

  3. hypothesis

    hypothesis (plural hypotheses) (sciences) Used loosely, a tentative conjecture explaining an observation, phenomenon or scientific problem that can be tested by further observation, investigation and/or experimentation. As a scientific term of art, see the attached quotation. Compare to theory, and quotation given there. This hypothesis goes by ...

  4. What is the Plural of Hypothesis?

    The plural form (meaning multiples) of the base word "hypothesis" is "hypotheses." Nouns can identify places, people, animals, and other things. They are the basic materials required to construct sentences. There are different types of nouns, including proper nouns, common nouns, compound nouns, collective nouns, abstract nouns, and countable ...

  5. What's the plural of hypothesis?

    The plural form of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses." This is because "hypothesis" is a Greek-derived word that follows the rules for forming plurals of Greek-derived words. In general, Greek-derived words that end in "-is" form the plural by changing the ending to "-es." The plural of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses" because it is a borrowed word from ...

  6. What's the Plural of Hypothesis?

    Lots of people confuse the plural of hypothesis, and it's not tough to see why: hypothesis is an irregular plural noun form that omits the -s/-es of regular plural nouns. Apart from this, the way hypothesis modifies from singular to plural effectively changes the spelling and pronunciation of the word by substituting the -sis as a singular to ...

  7. HYPOTHESES

    HYPOTHESES meaning: 1. plural of hypothesis 2. plural of hypothesis. Learn more.

  8. Whats the Plural of Hypothesis: Understanding Grammatical Number

    The word "hypotheses" is the plural form of "hypothesis." "Hypothesis" and "hypotheses" are used to propose explanations for phenomena, with usage depending on the number. The origin of "hypothesis" traces back to Greek, affecting its pluralization in English. In the most straightforward terms, the plural of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses."

  9. hypothesis noun

    Collocations Scientific research Scientific research Theory. formulate/ advance a theory/ hypothesis; build/ construct/ create/ develop a simple/ theoretical/ mathematical model; develop/ establish/ provide/ use a theoretical/ conceptual framework; advance/ argue/ develop the thesis that…; explore an idea/ a concept/ a hypothesis; make a prediction/ an inference

  10. What is the Plural of Hypothesis?

    The plural form of the hypothesis is hypotheses. This is the only way in the English language to make hypothesis plural. Because of the Greek origin, the rule of making a noun that ends in "is" to change it to "es.".

  11. hypothesis noun

    1 [countable] an idea or explanation of something that is based on a few known facts but that has not yet been proved to be true or correct synonym theory to formulate/confirm a hypothesis a hypothesis about the function of dreams There is little evidence to support these hypotheses. Topic Collocations Scientific Research theory. formulate/advance a theory/hypothesis

  12. HYPOTHESIS Definition & Meaning

    Hypothesis definition: a proposition, or set of propositions, set forth as an explanation for the occurrence of some specified group of phenomena, either asserted merely as a provisional conjecture to guide investigation (working hypothesis ) or accepted as highly probable in the light of established facts.. See examples of HYPOTHESIS used in a sentence.

  13. A Comprehensive Analysis of The Plural Forms of Hypothesis

    See, "hypothesis" comes from Greek, and in Greek, there's this whole other way of making plurals for words ending in "-sis." It involves adding "-ses" instead of "-es." Some folks, especially those with a deep love for the classics, prefer to stick to this Greek-y plural form.

  14. HYPOTHESES

    HYPOTHESES definition: 1. plural of hypothesis 2. plural of hypothesis. Learn more.

  15. What is the singular form of hypothesis?

    The word is spelled hypothesis as the singular form. The scientist argued that his hypothesis was the only correct one. The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses. Other scientists argued that there ...

  16. hypothesis, n. meanings, etymology and more

    The earliest known use of the noun hypothesis is in the late 1500s. OED's earliest evidence for hypothesis is from 1596, in the writing of Earl of Essex. hypothesis is a borrowing from Greek. Etymons: Greek ὑπόθεσις. See etymology.

  17. HYPOTHESIS

    HYPOTHESIS definition: 1. an idea or explanation for something that is based on known facts but has not yet been proved…. Learn more.

  18. What is the plural of hypothesis

    The plural form of hypothesis is hypotheses. Find more words! The transformation rules may comprise both causal hypotheses and modal transforms. This section includes many thoughtful hypotheses that are backed up by clearly illustrated tables and figures. His distaste for hypotheses is the natural reaction of a man in possession of a far ...

  19. Plural of hypothesis?

    The singular form is hypothesis. What is the singular form for hypothesis? Hypothesis is the singular form. The plural is hypotheses. What is the singular form of hypothesis?

  20. hypothesis

    Hypothesis is on the Academic Vocabulary List. (countable) A hypothesis is a guess about what will happen, usually in scientific experiments. We will test the hypothesis that the change will have no effect. The results of the experiment support the hypothesis. (uncountable) A guess with no evidence to support it. This idea is purely a hypothesis.

  21. Hypothesis Definition & Meaning

    Hypothesis definition: An unproved theory, proposition, supposition, etc. tentatively accepted to explain certain facts or (working hypothesis) to provide a basis for further investigation, argument, etc.

  22. HYPOTHESIS

    HYPOTHESIS meaning: 1. an idea or explanation for something that is based on known facts but has not yet been proved…. Learn more.

  23. Hypothesis Definition & Meaning

    Britannica Dictionary definition of HYPOTHESIS. [count] : an idea or theory that is not proven but that leads to further study or discussion. Other chemists rejected his hypothesis. put forward a hypothesis = advance a hypothesis. Their hypothesis is that watching excessive amounts of television reduces a person's ability to concentrate. The ...

  24. What is a Hypothesis?

    A hypothesis is a specific, testable statement about the relationship between two or more variables. Sociology Hub. Books, Journals, Papers; ... or other forms of systematic inquiry. The hypothesis typically takes the form of an "if-then" statement: if one variable changes, then another will change in response. In sociological research, a ...