Definitions
- Referring to an estimation or assumption made without sufficient evidence. - Talking about a prediction or conclusion based on incomplete information. - Describing a response given without certainty or confidence.
- Referring to a conclusion or opinion reached based on incomplete evidence or intuition. - Talking about a guess or assumption made without certain knowledge. - Describing a theory or conjecture based on limited information.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to making assumptions or conclusions based on incomplete information.
- 2Both words suggest a lack of certainty or confidence in the conclusion.
- 3Both words can be used to describe a guess or estimation.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Guessed is more commonly used in everyday language, while surmise is more formal and less common.
- 2Connotation: Guessed can have a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of effort or care in finding the correct answer, while surmise is more neutral and can suggest a thoughtful consideration of the available information.
- 3Degree of certainty: Surmise implies a higher degree of thoughtfulness and consideration than guessed, which can be more impulsive or instinctive.
- 4Form: Guessed is a verb, while surmise can be both a verb and a noun.
Remember this!
Guessed and surmise are synonyms that both refer to making assumptions or conclusions based on incomplete information. However, guessed is more commonly used and can have a negative connotation, while surmise is more formal and suggests a thoughtful consideration of the available information.
