hypothesis
Pronunciation: hy-POTH-uh-sis
noun
Definition of hypothesis
A proposed explanation based on limited evidence as a starting point
Synonyms for hypothesis
- theory
- assumption
- proposition
hypothesis in a Sentence
- The researcher formed a hypothesis that sleep quality affects academic performance.
Why hypothesis Matters for GRE & SAT
"hypothesis" is a noun that means "A proposed explanation based on limited evidence as a starting point" closely related to words like "theory", "assumption", "proposition". As a word starting with H, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.
On the GRE, understanding "hypothesis" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "hypothesis" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.
Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (noun). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "hypothesis" into long-term memory.
How to Remember hypothesis
One effective way to remember "hypothesis" (noun) is to group it with similar words you already know: "theory" and "assumption" and "proposition". When you encounter "hypothesis" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "A proposed explanation based on limited evidence as a starti...".
Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "hypothesis" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.
Related Words
More Vocabulary Words Starting with H
- habitat — The natural home or environment of an animal or plant
- habitat — The natural home or environment of an animal or plant
- hackneyed — lacking creativity; derivative and overused
- hackneyed — lacking creativity; derivative and overused
- hamper — obstruct or hinder progress
- hamper — obstruct or hinder progress
- hamper — To hinder or impede the movement or progress of
- haphazard — lacking clear planning, order, or direction
- haphazard — lacking clear planning, order, or direction
- hapless — unlucky or unfortunate