hypothetical — based on or serving as a hypothesis; supposed but not necessarily real or true
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: based on or serving as a hypothesis; supposed but not necessarily real or true
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌhaɪpəˈθetɪkl/
Example Sentences
- The teacher asked a hypothetical question: 'What would you do if you won the lottery tomorrow?'
- In a hypothetical world where cats could talk, they would probably just complain about their food all day.
- This is purely hypothetical, but what if homework could do itself?
hypothetical
ADJECTIVE[/ˌhaɪpəˈθetɪkl/]
based on or serving as a hypothesis; supposed but not necessarily real or true

The scientist tested a hypothetical explanation through repeated experiments.

The students discussed a hypothetical situation before starting the experiment.

The scientist explored a hypothetical idea through an experiment before reaching a conclusion.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Greek 'hypothetikos', derived from 'hypothesis' (a thing proposed or put forward), which comes from 'hypo-' (under) + 'thesis' (a placing or proposition). The word entered English through Late Latin and French.
Breakdown
hypo- (under) + thesis (a placing/proposition) + -ical (adjective suffix) = hypothetical
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The teacher asked a hypothetical question: 'What would you do if you won the lottery tomorrow?'”
“In a hypothetical world where cats could talk, they would probably just complain about their food all day.”
“This is purely hypothetical, but what if homework could do itself?”
“The lawyer presented a hypothetical case to illustrate her point during the debate.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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