What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hypothesising
Example
The scientists are hypothesising that the new drug will be effective in treating the disease. [hypothesising: verb]
Example
I am hypothesising that the reason for the low sales is due to poor marketing. [hypothesising: present participle]
speculating
Example
The media is speculating about the cause of the celebrity's sudden disappearance. [speculating: verb]
Example
I am just speculating, but I think the company might be going bankrupt. [speculating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Speculating is more commonly used than hypothesising in everyday language. Speculating is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hypothesising is less common and typically used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hypothesising and speculating?
Hypothesising is associated with a more formal and technical tone, while speculating can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.