What context can I use each word in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

conjecture

Example

Without any evidence, it is just a conjecture that the company is going bankrupt. [conjecture: noun]

Example

I can only conjecture what happened to the missing documents. [conjecture: verb]

speculation

Example

There is a lot of speculation about who will win the election. [speculation: noun]

Example

I am just speculating, but I think the price of oil will go up soon. [speculating: verb]

Definitions of conjecture and speculation

🤔

Key differences and similarities of conjecture and speculation

👉

Good things to know

Which word is more common?

Speculation is more commonly used than conjecture in everyday language, especially in news and media contexts. Conjecture is more formal and academic and is less frequently used in everyday conversation.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between conjecture and speculation?

Conjecture is more formal and academic than speculation, which is more commonly used in everyday language. Conjecture is often used in scientific or research contexts, while speculation is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels.