Speculate
To form a theory or conjecture about something without firm evidence; to invest in ventures with risk in hopes of gain.
verbSpeculate
To form a theory or conjecture about something without firm evidence; to invest in ventures with risk in hopes of gain.
verbImagine This
Imagine a detective standing in front of a corkboard full of clues. He connects pieces with string, proposing possible motives, but admits none of it is proven yet and his ideas remain educated guesses.
Sounds Like
SPEK-yuh-layt
Looks Like
Rooted in spec- meaning to look; resembles other 'spec-' words like inspect, spectator, spectacle.
Remember This
The root spec- means 'to look.' Speculate is often about possibilities rather than certainties and can also mean engaging in risky investment with uncertain outcomes.
Other Forms
Connect With
conjecture, hypothesize, surmise, infer, guess, theorize; related adjective: speculative
Note
Use speculate about or speculate on when discussing hypotheses or possibilities. Do not use speculate when you have proof—use assert or prove instead. Related uses include speculating in the stock market or on future events.
Study Deeper
- Researchers speculated about the causes of the anomaly after reviewing the data.
- Investors speculated on tech stocks, hoping for substantial returns.
From Late Latin speculari 'to observe, look at', from Latin spec- 'to look'. The English form entered usage in the 15th century to mean forming theories beyond the evidence.
SPECULATE = See Propose Estimate Conjecture Use Limited Assumptions Test Evaluate
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Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Infer
verbTo arrive at a conclusion through reasoning from given facts or evidence; to deduce.
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Abridge
verbTo shorten (a text, speech, or other work) by omitting parts; to condense.
Abscond
verbTo depart secretly or flee, especially to avoid detection or arrest.