Translation guide
A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or assumption that can be tested. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 仮説 (かせつ), used in scientific and academic contexts. For everyday assumptions or conjectures, 仮定 (かてい) or 推測 (すいそく) may be more natural. The choice depends on whether you are talking about a formal scientific hypothesis, a working assumption, or a guess.
A formal, testable explanation in science or research.
A condition or statement assumed to be true for the sake of argument or calculation.
Used for assumptions in logic, math, or hypothetical scenarios. Often translated as 'assumption' or 'supposition'.
An idea or guess based on incomplete evidence, often in everyday conversation.
A provisional idea used as a starting point for investigation or action.
仮説 is a formal, testable hypothesis in science. 仮定 is an assumption used as a premise in logic or hypothetical scenarios. 推測 is a conjecture or guess based on evidence, often used in everyday language.
Directly translating 'hypothesis' as ハイポセシス is not natural in Japanese. Use the appropriate term based on context.
He proposed a new hypothesis.
Let's form a hypothesis first and then start the investigation.
If this assumption is correct, the conclusion is valid.
Hypothetically speaking, what would you do if you won the lottery?
Means 'premise' or 'precondition'. Often used when a hypothesis serves as the basis for further reasoning.
The theory is based on a false premise.
A general term for conjecture, guess, or inference. Suitable when you are not certain but have some basis.
That's just a hypothesis (conjecture).
His guess turned out to be right.
Speculation or guesswork, often with a nuance of being groundless. More negative than 推測.
Don't speak based on mere speculation.
Literally 'working hypothesis'. Used in research and business contexts.
Let's proceed with this method as a working hypothesis.
A tentative theory or hypothesis. Less formal than 作業仮説.
That's still just a tentative hypothesis.