speculation

[spek-yuh-ley-shuhn]

noun

1. the contemplation or consideration of some subject.

   to engage in speculation on humanity's ultimate destiny.

2. a single instance or process of consideration.

3. a conclusion or opinion reached by such contemplation.

   These speculations are impossible to verify.

   Synonyms: hypothesis, theory, view, supposition

4. conjectural consideration of a matter; conjecture or surmise.

   a report based on speculation rather than facts.

5. engagement in business transactions involving considerable risk but offering the chance of large gains, especially trading in commodities, stocks, etc., in the hope of profit from changes in the market price.

6. a speculative commercial venture or undertaking.

speculation

/ ˌspɛkjʊˈleɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of speculating

2. a supposition, theory, or opinion arrived at through speculating

3. investment involving high risk but also the possibility of high profits

Other Word Forms

• antispeculation noun
• nonspeculation noun
• overspeculation noun
• prespeculation noun
• semispeculation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of speculation¹

1325–75; Middle English speculacioun < Late Latin speculātiōn- (stem of speculātiō ) exploration, observation. See speculate, -ion

Example Sentences

While an investigation into the cause of the crash is under way, there was much speculation among mourners.

From BBC

When these cartoons were staples of the media, it was much easier to maintain a healthy sense of speculation about a politician’s intentions.

From Salon

That speculation, which went around social media before Tuesday’s press conference, was pulled straight from someone’s nether regions who has neither access to accurate information nor common sense.

From Salon

Ms Rayner has explained publicly that, following recent allegations and speculation, and in order to assure herself of compliance with her obligations, she sought legal advice from leading tax Counsel.

From BBC

Change has been in the wind at Spurs in recent months, leading to speculation about future ownership, but Levy's departure - from the role he has held since 2001 - was a seismic moment.

From BBC

Related Words

• belief 
• conjecture 
• opinion 
• thought