working hypothesis — a tentative explanation or theory that serves as a starting point for further investigation
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a tentative explanation or theory that serves as a starting point for further investigation
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈwɜːrkɪŋ haɪˈpɑːθəsɪs/
Example Sentences
- My working hypothesis is that my cat is actually plotting world domination through excessive cuteness.
- The detective's working hypothesis was that the butler did it, but the evidence pointed elsewhere.
- Her working hypothesis about why students fall asleep in class: the chairs are too comfortable.
working hypothesis
NOUN[/ˈwɜːrkɪŋ haɪˈpɑːθəsɪs/]
a tentative explanation or theory that serves as a starting point for further investigation
a tentative explanation or theory that serves as a starting point for further investigation
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Working derives from Old English 'weorc' (to work, labour), while hypothesis comes from Greek 'hypothesis' (foundation, assumption), literally 'hypo-' (under) + 'thesis' (a placing or proposition). The compound term emerged in scientific contexts to denote a provisional explanation actively tested during investigation.
Breakdown
working (from Old English 'weorc', meaning functioning or operating) + hypothesis (from Greek 'hypo-' (under) + 'thesis' (proposition or placed foundation)), combining to mean a preliminary assumption used and tested in active research.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My working hypothesis is that my cat is actually plotting world domination through excessive cuteness.”
“The detective's working hypothesis was that the butler did it, but the evidence pointed elsewhere.”
“Her working hypothesis about why students fall asleep in class: the chairs are too comfortable.”
📚Related Words
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