supposition

Everyday

1. A supposition is an idea or belief that you think is true but have not proved: a guess based on some reasons. tree →
2. Supposition is the act of supposing or guessing rather than knowing. tree →

In the lessons

In science, a supposition is like a hypothesis that needs testing. In stories, especially mysteries, detectives say «That's just supposition» meaning there is no proof yet. In maths and logic, you can make a supposition («Suppose x is 5») and work out what follows. Phrases: «pure supposition», «on the supposition that», «based on supposition».

Examples

• That's just supposition — we need evidence. tree →
• The detective's supposition turned out to be right. tree →
• On the supposition that it will rain, we packed coats. tree →
• Her supposition was that the cat ate the fish. tree →
• Science turns suppositions into tested facts or throws them out. tree →
• The whole story was based on supposition. tree →

Note

Formal word. From the verb «suppose». Close words: «assumption», «guess», «hypothesis». Not the same as «a fact».

In Jewish tradition

In science, a supposition is like a hypothesis that needs testing. In stories, especially mysteries, detectives say «That's just supposition» meaning there is no proof yet. In maths and logic, you can make a supposition («Suppose x is 5») and work out what follows. Phrases: «pure supposition», «on the supposition that», «based on supposition».

Note

Formal word. From the verb «suppose». Close words: «assumption», «guess», «hypothesis». Not the same as «a fact».