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How to Say "hypothesis" in Spanish

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supuesto

/soo-PWEHS-toh//suˈpwesto/

nounB1general
Use 'supuesto' when referring to a starting point or an assumption that is taken as true for the sake of an argument or investigation, often without proof.
A single, smooth stone pedestal standing alone on green grass, ready to support a future structure, symbolizing a foundational assumption.

Examples

Partimos del supuesto de que todos los invitados vendrán.

We're starting from the assumption that all the guests will come.

En el supuesto de que llueva, cancelaremos el picnic.

In the event that it rains, we will cancel the picnic.

A Special Verb Form for Hypotheticals

The phrase 'en el supuesto de que' (in the event that) signals a hypothetical situation. Because it's not a fact, the verb that follows often changes into a special 'what if' form called the subjunctive. For example: 'En el supuesto de que venga...' (In the event that he comes...).

teoría

nounB1general
Use 'teoría' for an unproven idea or a speculative explanation that serves as a basis for further reasoning or experimentation, often in a scientific context.

Examples

La nueva teoría del profesor explica los agujeros negros.

The professor's new theory explains black holes.

Supuesto vs. Teoría

Learners often confuse 'supuesto' and 'teoría' by using 'supuesto' when they mean a more developed, albeit unproven, scientific idea. Remember that 'supuesto' is more about a foundational assumption, while 'teoría' refers to a more structured, explanatory concept.

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