what's the plural of hypothesis

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Definition of hypothesis

Did you know.

The Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory

A hypothesis is an assumption, an idea that is proposed for the sake of argument so that it can be tested to see if it might be true.

In the scientific method, the hypothesis is constructed before any applicable research has been done, apart from a basic background review. You ask a question, read up on what has been studied before, and then form a hypothesis.

A hypothesis is usually tentative; it's an assumption or suggestion made strictly for the objective of being tested.

A theory , in contrast, is a principle that has been formed as an attempt to explain things that have already been substantiated by data. It is used in the names of a number of principles accepted in the scientific community, such as the Big Bang Theory . Because of the rigors of experimentation and control, it is understood to be more likely to be true than a hypothesis is.

In non-scientific use, however, hypothesis and theory are often used interchangeably to mean simply an idea, speculation, or hunch, with theory being the more common choice.

Since this casual use does away with the distinctions upheld by the scientific community, hypothesis and theory are prone to being wrongly interpreted even when they are encountered in scientific contexts—or at least, contexts that allude to scientific study without making the critical distinction that scientists employ when weighing hypotheses and theories.

The most common occurrence is when theory is interpreted—and sometimes even gleefully seized upon—to mean something having less truth value than other scientific principles. (The word law applies to principles so firmly established that they are almost never questioned, such as the law of gravity.)

This mistake is one of projection: since we use theory in general to mean something lightly speculated, then it's implied that scientists must be talking about the same level of uncertainty when they use theory to refer to their well-tested and reasoned principles.

The distinction has come to the forefront particularly on occasions when the content of science curricula in schools has been challenged—notably, when a school board in Georgia put stickers on textbooks stating that evolution was "a theory, not a fact, regarding the origin of living things." As Kenneth R. Miller, a cell biologist at Brown University, has said , a theory "doesn’t mean a hunch or a guess. A theory is a system of explanations that ties together a whole bunch of facts. It not only explains those facts, but predicts what you ought to find from other observations and experiments.”

While theories are never completely infallible, they form the basis of scientific reasoning because, as Miller said "to the best of our ability, we’ve tested them, and they’ve held up."

• proposition
• supposition

hypothesis , theory , law mean a formula derived by inference from scientific data that explains a principle operating in nature.

hypothesis implies insufficient evidence to provide more than a tentative explanation.

theory implies a greater range of evidence and greater likelihood of truth.

law implies a statement of order and relation in nature that has been found to be invariable under the same conditions.

Examples of hypothesis in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hypothesis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Greek, from hypotithenai to put under, suppose, from hypo- + tithenai to put — more at do

1846, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing hypothesis

• counter - hypothesis
• nebular hypothesis
• null hypothesis
• planetesimal hypothesis
• Whorfian hypothesis

Articles Related to hypothesis

This is the Difference Between a...

This is the Difference Between a Hypothesis and a Theory

In scientific reasoning, they're two completely different things

Dictionary Entries Near hypothesis

hypothermia

hypothesize

Cite this Entry

“Hypothesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothesis. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of hypothesis, medical definition, medical definition of hypothesis, more from merriam-webster on hypothesis.

Nglish: Translation of hypothesis for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of hypothesis for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hypothesis

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What’s the Plural of Hypothesis?

• November 19, 2022

The plural of “hypothesis”

• The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses (sounds like hi-paw-thuh-sea s).
• Hypotheses is the only recognized plural of hypothesis .

What’s with the word hypothesis , and why does it behave the way it does from its singular to plural form? Keep reading.

What’s the meaning of hypothesis?

Hypothesis comes from the Greek word of the same spelling,  hypothesis , meaning, “base, groundwork, foundation”. Hypothesis is made up of the Greek root words, hypo + thesis : “ hypo ” meaning “under” or “placing under”; “ thesis “, meaning “a placing, proposition”, (from Etymonline ).

So, based on the noun’s construction, hypothesis means to put or set forward a thesis or proposal to be subject to further investigating. According to Wikipedia , hypotheses are:

Tentative conjectures explaining an observation, phenomenon or scientific problem that can be tested by further observation, investigation and/or experimentation. Wikipedia on the word hypothesis.

Why is “hypotheses” plural for “hypothesis”?

Lots of people confuse the plural of hypothesis , and it’s not tough to see why: hypothesis is an irregular plural noun form that omits the -s/-es of regular plural nouns . Apart from this, the way hypothesis modifies from singular to plural effectively changes the spelling and pronunciation of the word by substituting the -sis as a singular to – ses plural.

Most nouns add an -s/-es to denote plural. Hypothesis , and similar sounding nouns such as crisis , thesis , oasis , nemesis , diagnosis , analysis and so on, all change to -ses in their plural forms.

Nouns that end in “sis”

Each of these irregular plural nouns have another thing in common: they’re all Greek words that use Greek suffixes.  So, in case you didn’t know, we all speak a bit of Greek.

Examples of “hypothesis” (singular) in sentences

Other chemists rejected his hypothesis .

What we need is a general hypothesis to explain merger waves.

Their hypothesis is that watching excessive amounts of television reduces a person’s ability to concentrate.

The results of the experiment did not support his hypothesis .

She wrote something to summarize her hypothesis .

Examples of “hypotheses” (plural) in sentences

It will be evident that no direct record of this evolution can be expected, and recourse must be had to hypotheses founded on the indirect evidence available.

The hypotheses which carried it back to the early years of the Christian era have been wholly abandoned.

Various hypotheses have been put forward to explain this increase.

In the above work we have a combination of the redaction and sources hypotheses .

Such hypotheses attend to Aristotle’s philosophy to the neglect of his life.

Synonyms of “hypothesis”

• supposition
• proposition
• explanation
• interpretation

Read about other irregular plurals

• What’s the plural of bison?
• What’s the plural of moose?
• What’s the plural of sheep?
• What’s the plural of ox?
• What’s the plural of cactus?
• What’s the plural of crisis?

Origin of “hypothesis”

From etymonline:

1590s, “a particular statement;” 1650s, “a proposition, assumed and taken for granted, used as a premise,” from French hypothese and directly from Late Latin hypothesis , from Greek hypothesis .

• Wikipedia hypothesis.
• Synonyms for hypothesis.
• Hypotheses sentence examples.
• Origin of hypothesis.

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The Plural of Hypothesis: Here’s What It Is and How to Use It

Ever get stuck wondering what the plural form of hypothesis is in English? Perfect! This article will tell you just that plus give more facts about the word hypothesis, synonyms like a thesaurus, examples, and the history of the word. You will no doubt be an expert on all things surrounding the word hypothesis by the end of this article.

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What Is The Definition Of Hypothesis

As found in the Meriam Webster Dictionary 

• An assumption or concession made for the sake of argument
• an interpretation of a practical situation or condition taken as the ground for action
• a tentative assumption made in order to draw out and test its logical or empirical consequences
• the antecedent clause of a conditional statement

As found in the Cambridge Dictionary

• an idea or explanation for something that is based on known facts but has not yet been proved: several hypotheses for global warming have been suggested.

In “The Origin of Hypothesis” it is phrased as a ‘scientific guess’. In the context of science, a hypothesis is a placeholder for a theory until it is proven by science to be accurate.

A scientific hypothesis sed to explain something occurring in our universe that currently does not fit into our current available scientific theories. Scientific hypotheses also include null hypothesis, working hypothesis, and alternative hypothesis. 

History and Origin of The Word

From the Greek hypotithenai to put under, suppose, from hypo- + tithenai to put. The first use of the word hypothesis can be traced back to 1596. Issac Newton actually rejected the hypothesis, he said “Hypotheses non fingo” which translates to “I Frame no hypotheses”. This was back in 1721 in Issac Newton’s book “Opticks, or A Treatise of the Reflections, Refractions, Inflections, and Colours of Light”

What Is More Than One Hypothesis Called?

The plural form of the hypothesis is hypotheses. This is the only way in the English language to make hypothesis plural. Because of the Greek origin, the rule of making a noun that ends in “is” to change it to “es.”

• Assumption – Something taken for granted
• Postulate- suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of (something) as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or belief
• Rationale – Logic for belief, action
• Previous observations- things that were seen or experienced in the past
• Supposition – guess, belief
• Theorem – explanation based on hypothesis and experiments done by experimenters using the scientific method
• Thesis – belief, assumption to be tested
• Conjecture – speculation, assumption
• Conclusion – end
• Tentative Explanation – clarification; reason
• Guess – belief, speculation 
• Interpretation – understanding
• Premise – hypothesis, argument

What Is The Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory?

Since we now know that a hypothesis is a guess or assumption, how is that different from a theory? The definition of a theory is “a supposition or system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained”. 

Although we might think of a theory as something that has not been 100% proven, its definition in the application of science is something that has been tested as an explanation for things occurring. It is still an explanation that is thought of as true until proven otherwise, the difference here is that a hypothesis is thought to explain something not yet tested and could also be thought of as an unproved theory or suggested explanation.

Follow these examples to see the difference in action:

• Fact: “The clouds are dark outside.” 
• Hypothesis: “It might storm today.”
• Theory: “Rain clouds are dark because of their particulate density. The denser the water droplets are in the cloud the more light will be scattered, which will lead to a darker appearance.”
• Fact: “Light roast coffee has more caffeine than dark roast coffee”
• Hypothesis: “I should drink a cup of light roast coffee if I want more caffeine”
• Theory: “During the roasting process caffeine is slowly burned off, therefore it is true that light roast coffee has more caffeine. You should however choose dark roast if you want more caffeine per cup because although per bean light roast has more caffeine, per gram of coffee dark roast contains more caffeine. This is because you have to consider the percent of weight loss that occurs with roasting a coffee to a dark level, which is higher than the percent of caffeine lost, therefore you have more caffeine per gram in dark roast over light roast, only by a minuscule amount.”

What Is The Difference Between An Idea and Hypothesis?

Since a hypothesis is an idea that can be tested, here are some examples of what is just an idea and can’t be tested followed by a similar idea that can be tested and is a hypothesis.

• Idea: Biden would be a better president vs Trump – Can not be tested since we have no data. 
• Hypothesis: Obama did a better job at fixing unemployment vs Bush – can be tested by looking at the data.
• Idea: I could have been the best disc golfer if I started playing when I was a kid – Impossible to test
• Hypothesis: Paul McBeth probably hit more circle 2 putts on tour last year than Ricky Wysocki. – Can be proven by looking at the data for all their putts on the PDGA tour last year.

Example Sentences In Context

The following are examples of hypothesis in context:

“We came up with the assumptions and then narrowed them down to one hypothesis for each category.” – Forbes

“The notion of hypothesis testing has recently invaded the practice of entrepreneurship as a tool to construct of new ventures” – Forbes

“There’s not one unifying hypothesis as to why, but there’s probably five to 20 different things that have contributed to it.” – USA Today

“Most thinkers or hypothesists of any degree of sobriety allow, that an hypothesis…is not to be received as probably true because it accounts for all the known phenomena since this is a condition sometimes fulfilled tolerably well by two conflicting hypotheses…while there are probably a thousand more which are equally possible, but which, for want of anything analogous in our experience, our minds are unfitted to conceive” – Underdetermination of Scientific Theory

“The expensive tissue hypothesis was focused on human brains and it was never intended as a one-size-fits-all possible explanation that applied across all mammals. The original paper even said that “the cost of the additional brain tissue could have been met by strategies other than a reduction in gut size.” – National Geographic

Kevin Miller is a growth marketer with an extensive background in Search Engine Optimization, paid acquisition and email marketing. He is also an online editor and writer based out of Los Angeles, CA. He studied at Georgetown University, worked at Google and became infatuated with English Grammar and for years has been diving into the language, demystifying the do's and don'ts for all who share the same passion! He can be found online here.

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Plural of Hypothesis: Rules and Examples

By: Author ESLBUZZ

Posted on Last updated: November 13, 2023

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The plural of hypothesis is a topic of much debate among scientists and researchers. While some argue that “hypotheses” is the correct plural form, others insist that “hypothese” is the proper way to refer to multiple hypotheses. So, which one is correct? In this article, we will explore the history and etymology of the word “hypothesis” and examine the different arguments for each plural form. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the plural of “hypothesis” and be equipped to use it accurately in your scientific writing.

Plural of Hypothesis

Definition and Plural of Hypothesis

If you are a scientist or a researcher, you are probably familiar with the term “hypothesis.” A hypothesis is an idea or explanation for something that is based on known facts but has not yet been proved. It is often used as a starting point for scientific research.

There are several key components of a hypothesis:

• Testability: A hypothesis must be testable through experimentation or observation. This means that it must be possible to collect data that can either support or refute the hypothesis.
• Falsifiability: A hypothesis must be falsifiable, meaning that it can be proven false if it is not supported by the data. This is important because it allows scientists to eliminate incorrect explanations and focus on more accurate ones.
• Specificity: A hypothesis must be specific in its predictions. It should clearly state what is being tested and what the expected outcome is.
• Relevance: A hypothesis must be relevant to the research question or problem being addressed. It should be based on existing knowledge and observations related to the phenomenon being studied.

The plural of “hypothesis” is “hypotheses.” Scientists base scientific hypotheses on previous observations that cannot be explained with the available scientific theories. Experimenters may test and reject several hypotheses before solving a problem. The noun “hypothesis” has a Greek root, which is the derivation of the plural “hypotheses.”

It is important to note that a hypothesis is not a proven fact. It is simply an idea that can be tested and either confirmed or rejected through experiments or further research. A hypothesis is often used to explain a phenomenon or to predict the outcome of an experiment.

In scientific research, hypotheses are crucial for advancing knowledge and understanding of the world around us. They help researchers to identify the gaps in current knowledge and to develop new theories and explanations. Hypotheses are also used to guide experiments and to determine the best methods for collecting and analyzing data.

When to Use Hypothesis and Plural of Hypothesis

When conducting scientific research, it is important to understand when to use the singular form “hypothesis” and when to use the plural form “hypotheses.” A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon that can be tested through experimentation or observation. Scientists use hypotheses to guide their research and to make predictions about the outcomes of experiments.

When discussing a single proposed explanation, you would use the singular form “hypothesis.” For example, “My hypothesis is that increased exposure to sunlight will lead to increased plant growth.”

On the other hand, when discussing multiple proposed explanations, you would use the plural form “hypotheses.” For example, “The researchers tested several hypotheses before arriving at a conclusion.”

It is important to note that the plural form “hypotheses” is not used to refer to multiple instances of the same hypothesis. In this case, you would still use the singular form “hypothesis.” For example, “The experiment was conducted multiple times to test the same hypothesis.”

Examples of Hypothesis and Plural of Hypothesis in Sentences

When it comes to forming the plural of hypothesis, it’s important to remember that “hypotheses” is the only way to make the noun “hypothesis” plural. Here are a few examples of how to use “hypothesis” and “hypotheses” in sentences:

Using “hypothesis”: 

• You have developed a hypothesis about the cause of the problem.
• My hypothesis is that the new treatment will improve patient outcomes.
• The scientist presented a compelling hypothesis about the origin of the universe.
• Before conducting any experiments, it’s important to develop a hypothesis to guide your research.

Using “hypotheses”: 

• The team’s hypotheses were all based on sound scientific principles, but only one was ultimately proven correct.
• The researchers had to revise their hypotheses several times as they collected more data.
• Without testing multiple hypotheses, it’s difficult to determine which one is the most accurate explanation for a given phenomenon.
• The team’s hypotheses were all based on different assumptions, which made it difficult to determine which one was correct.

As you can see, the plural form of “hypothesis” is used when referring to multiple hypotheses. It’s important to use the correct plural form to ensure clear communication.

In addition to using “hypotheses” as the plural form, it’s also important to use the correct verb agreement. For example:

Correct:  The hypotheses were tested.

Incorrect:  The hypotheses was tested.

Using the correct verb agreement is just as important as using the correct plural form.

Plural Noun Rules For Regular Nouns

When it comes to making nouns plural, there are a few rules that you should keep in mind. In this section, we’ll cover the rules for both regular and irregular nouns.

• Most regular nouns form their plurals by adding -s to the end of the singular form. For example, “car” becomes “cars”, “book” becomes “books”, and “desk” becomes “desks”.
• If the singular noun ends in -s, -x, -z, -ch, or -sh, add -es to the end to form the plural. For example, “box” becomes “boxes”, “buzz” becomes “buzzes”, “wish” becomes “wishes”, and “church” becomes “churches”.
• If the singular noun ends in a consonant followed by -y, change the -y to -ies to form the plural. For example, “city” becomes “cities”, “baby” becomes “babies”, and “party” becomes “parties”.
• If the singular noun ends in a vowel followed by -y, add -s to form the plural. For example, “key” becomes “keys”, “boy” becomes “boys”, and “day” becomes “days”.
• If the singular noun ends in -f or -fe, change the -f or -fe to -ves to form the plural. For example, “knife” becomes “knives”, “life” becomes “lives”, and “leaf” becomes “leaves”.
• If the singular noun ends in a consonant followed by -o, add -es to form the plural. For example, “potato” becomes “potatoes”, “hero” becomes “heroes”, and “tomato” becomes “tomatoes”.
• If the singular noun ends in a vowel followed by -o, add -s to form the plural. For example, “studio” becomes “studios”, “zoo” becomes “zoos”, and “radio” becomes “radios”.

Remember, these are just the basic plural noun rules for regular nouns. There are always exceptions and irregular nouns that follow different rules for forming plurals.

Plural Noun Rules For Irregular Nouns

List of common irregular plural nouns.

Here is a list of some of the most common irregular plural nouns in English:

Remember, when it comes to making nouns plural, it’s important to follow the rules for each individual noun. By keeping these rules in mind, you’ll be able to make any noun plural with ease.

Nouns That End in Us

Nouns that end in “us” in their singular form usually have “i” added to the end to form the plural. For example:

• Plural: cacti
• Plural: fungi
• Plural: nuclei

Nouns  That End in Is

Nouns that end in “is” in their singular form usually have “es” added to the end to form the plural. For example:

• Plural: bases
• Plural: analyses
• Plural: hypotheses

Nouns That End in On and Um

Nouns that end in “on” or “um” in their singular form usually have “a” added to the end to form the plural. For example:

• Plural: criteria
• Plural: phenomena
• Plural: curricula

It’s important to note that there are many exceptions to these rules, and some nouns have irregular plural forms that don’t follow any specific pattern. However, by knowing these basic rules, you can form the plural of many nouns correctly.

Plurals That Are the Same as Singulars

Some words in English have the same form for both singular and plural. These are known as “singularia tantum” or “pluralia tantum” words. “Hypothesis” is not one of them, but it is important to be aware of these types of words.

Here are some examples of singularia tantum words:

These words do not have a separate plural form, and they are always used in their singular form, even when referring to multiple items.

It’s important to remember that these words do not follow the usual rules of English grammar, and they can be confusing for non-native speakers.

In contrast, “hypothesis” follows the usual rules of English grammar and has a separate plural form, “hypotheses.” It’s important to use the correct plural form when referring to multiple hypotheses in academic or scientific writing.

Words That Look Like Plural Nouns but Are Singular Nouns

In the English language, there are several words that look like they are plural nouns, but they are actually singular nouns. These words can be quite confusing, especially when it comes to using them in sentences. Here are some examples of such words:

• Mathematics
• Linguistics

It’s important to keep in mind that using these words correctly can help you sound more knowledgeable and confident in your writing. So, take some time to review the proper usage of these words and make sure you are using them correctly in your writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the plural form of hypothesis?

The plural form of hypothesis is ‘hypotheses’.

How do you use ‘hypotheses’ in a sentence?

You can use ‘hypotheses’ in a sentence by replacing the singular ‘hypothesis’ with the plural form. For example, “The scientist tested multiple hypotheses to explain the results.”

What is the difference between hypothesis and hypotheses?

‘Hypothesis’ is the singular form of the word, while ‘hypotheses’ is the plural form.

Can you give some examples of hypotheses?

Sure! Here are some examples of hypotheses:

• If I study for three hours a day, my grades will improve.
• Eating a healthy diet can reduce the risk of heart disease.
• People who exercise regularly are more likely to live longer.

What are the grammar rules for forming plurals?

The rules for forming plurals vary depending on the word. For most nouns, you simply add an ‘s’ to the end of the word. For nouns that end in ‘s’, ‘x’, ‘z’, ‘ch’, or ‘sh’, you add ‘es’ to the end. There are some exceptions to these rules, so it’s always a good idea to double-check if you’re unsure.

The plural form of hypothesis is 'hypotheses'.

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You can use 'hypotheses' in a sentence by replacing the singular 'hypothesis' with the plural form. For example, \"The scientist tested multiple hypotheses to explain the results.\"

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'Hypothesis' is the singular form of the word, while 'hypotheses' is the plural form.

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The rules for forming plurals vary depending on the word. For most nouns, you simply add an 's' to the end of the word. For nouns that end in 's', 'x', 'z', 'ch', or 'sh', you add 'es' to the end. There are some exceptions to these rules, so it's always a good idea to double-check if you're unsure.

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Using the correct plural form is important because it helps to ensure that your writing is clear and easy to understand. It also shows that you have a good understanding of grammar, which can be important in academic or professional settings.

I hope this section has helped answer some of your questions about the plural form of hypothesis!

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A Comprehensive Analysis of The Plural Forms of Hypothesis

Emily olivia

October 17, 2024

Hypothesis , the cornerstone of scientific inquiry, sparks curiosity and fuels our quest for knowledge. But have you ever wondered about its plural form? This seemingly simple question opens a Pandora’s box of linguistic intrigue, revealing the fascinating complexity of language evolution.

Delving into the world of hypotheses (yes, that’s one correct plural form!) takes us on a journey through ancient Greek grammar, modern academic writing, and the ever-changing landscape of English usage. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or a curious language enthusiast, understanding the nuances of this term’s plural forms can elevate your linguistic prowess and sharpen your communication skills.

In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll unravel the mystery surrounding the plural forms of hypothesis, exploring their origins, usage, and implications in various contexts. From scientific papers to casual conversations, mastering these forms will empower you to express your ideas with precision and confidence. So, buckle up as we embark on this linguistic adventure – you might be surprised by what you discover!

Table of Contents

The Etymology of Hypothesis: A Greek Odyssey

To truly grasp the plural forms of hypothesis, we must first journey back to its Greek roots . The word “hypothesis” comes from the ancient Greek ὑπόθεσις (hypóthesis), composed of two parts: ὑπό (hypó), meaning “under,” and θέσις (thésis), meaning “placing” or “position.” This etymological breakdown sheds light on why the plural form isn’t as straightforward as simply adding an ‘s’ to the end.

In ancient Greek grammar, nouns ending in -sis typically form their plural by changing -sis to -ses. This pattern carried over when the word was adopted into Latin and subsequently English. Hence, the primary plural form of hypothesis becomes hypotheses , pronounced as /haɪˈpɒθəsiːz/.

However, language is a living entity, constantly evolving. While “hypotheses” remains the standard plural form in academic and scientific circles, you might encounter variations in less formal settings. Some English speakers, unfamiliar with the Greek origin, might use “hypothesises” or even “hypothesis” as a plural form. Though these aren’t considered correct in formal writing, they illustrate the fascinating way language adapts and changes over time.

The Singular and Plural Dance: When to Use Which Form

Understanding when to use the singular “hypothesis” and when to switch to the plural “hypotheses” is crucial for clear communication, especially in academic writing and scientific studies . Let’s break it down with some practical scenarios:

Singular “Hypothesis” Usage:

• When proposing a single idea or explanation to be tested
• Discussing an individual theory in a research paper
• Referring to the concept of a hypothesis in general

Plural “Hypotheses” Usage:

• Presenting multiple theories or explanations in a study
• Discussing various assumptions in a complex experiment
• Comparing different ideas across multiple scientific papers

Pro Tip: When writing a dissertation or scientific paper, consistency is key. Stick to the standard plural form “hypotheses” to maintain a professional tone and demonstrate your understanding of scientific terminology.

Here’s a handy table to illustrate the correct usage:

Mastering the Plural: Practical Examples and Scenarios

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some real-world examples to solidify your understanding of how to use hypothesis and hypotheses correctly. These scenarios will help you navigate various contexts, from formal academic settings to more casual interactions.

Example 1: The Scientific Paper

Dr. Emily Chen is writing a research paper on climate change. She needs to present multiple ideas for testing. Here’s how she might structure her introduction:

“This study explores three main hypotheses regarding the impact of deforestation on local climate patterns:

• Hypothesis 1: Deforestation leads to increased local temperatures.
• Hypothesis 2: Reduced forest cover alters precipitation patterns.
• Hypothesis 3: Changes in local climate due to deforestation affect biodiversity.”

Notice how Dr. Chen uses the plural “hypotheses” when referring to all three ideas collectively, but the singular “hypothesis” when listing each individual proposal.

Example 2: The Classroom Discussion

Professor James is leading a philosophy class discussion on the nature of reality. He might say:

“Today, we’ll examine various hypotheses about the nature of consciousness. Each of you will present your hypothesis , and then we’ll debate the merits of each. Remember, a strong hypothesis should be testable and falsifiable.”

Here, the professor smoothly alternates between singular and plural forms, demonstrating their correct usage in an academic setting.

Example 3: The Business Email

Sarah, a market research analyst, is emailing her team about a new project:

Sarah’s email demonstrates how to use both singular and plural forms in a professional context, maintaining clarity and precision in her communication.

The Linguistic Debate: Alternative Plural Forms

While “hypotheses” stands as the standard plural form of hypothesis, the English language, known for its exceptions and irregularities, has spawned some alternative forms. These variations, though not widely accepted in formal settings, offer an intriguing glimpse into the evolution of language and the challenges of maintaining linguistic consistency.

Hypothesises: A Common Misconception

Some English speakers, particularly those unfamiliar with Greek-derived words, might instinctively add “-es” to form the plural, resulting in “hypothesises.” While this follows the pattern of many English words (e.g., bus → buses), it’s not considered correct for “hypothesis.”

Example: Incorrect: “The researchers proposed several hypothesises to explain the unexpected results.” Correct: “The researchers proposed several hypotheses to explain the unexpected results.”

Hypothesis as a Plural: The Unchanging Form

In some informal contexts, you might encounter “hypothesis” used as both singular and plural, similar to words like “sheep” or “deer.” This usage, while not standard, highlights the complexity of English pluralization rules.

Example of non-standard usage: “The team came up with five different hypothesis to test.”

Correct version: “The team came up with five different hypotheses to test.”

Navigating Academic and Professional Writing

For language enthusiasts and professionals engaged in academic study or scholarly writing , mastering the correct plural form of hypothesis is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure you always use the right form:

• Remember the Greek connection : Linking “hypothesis” to its Greek origin can help you recall the correct plural form.
• Practice makes perfect : Regularly use “hypotheses” in your writing and speech to make it feel natural.
• Proofread carefully : When reviewing your work, pay special attention to plural forms of Greek-derived words.
• Use writing tools : Many grammar checkers can catch incorrect plural forms, but don’t rely on them exclusively.
• Read extensively : Exposure to academic texts will reinforce correct usage.

The Broader Context: Greek-Derived Words in English

Understanding the plural form of hypothesis opens the door to a fascinating aspect of the English language: the incorporation of Greek-derived words. This knowledge can enhance your overall linguistic prowess and help you navigate similar terms in academic writing and beyond.

Here are some other Greek-derived words with similar plural formations:

• Analysis → Analyses
• Crisis → Crises
• Basis → Bases
• Thesis → Theses
• Parenthesis → Parentheses

Mastering these plural forms showcases your attention to detail and understanding of language nuances, particularly valuable in scientific study and scholarly contexts.

Practical Applications: From Lab Reports to Literature Reviews

The correct use of “hypothesis” and “hypotheses” extends beyond mere grammatical correctness; it’s a fundamental skill for anyone engaged in research, academic writing, or scientific communication. Let’s explore how this knowledge applies in various scenarios:

Writing a Research Proposal

When crafting a research proposal, clearly stating your hypothesis (or hypotheses ) is crucial. For example:

“This study will test the following hypotheses:

• Online learning platforms increase student engagement.
• Virtual reality tools enhance retention of complex concepts.
• Gamification elements in educational software improve learning outcomes.”

Conducting a Literature Review

In a literature review, you’ll often need to discuss multiple hypotheses from various studies. For instance:

“Smith et al. (2020) proposed three hypotheses regarding climate change’s impact on marine ecosystems. Their primary hypothesis suggested that rising ocean temperatures would lead to coral bleaching events.”

Presenting Research Findings

When presenting your research, clearly distinguishing between singular and plural forms helps your audience follow your logic:

“Our initial hypothesis was partially supported by the data. However, further analysis led us to develop two additional hypotheses that better explain the observed phenomena.”

The Evolution of Scientific Language

The journey of “hypothesis” from ancient Greek to modern English reflects the broader evolution of scientific language. As our understanding of the world grows more complex, so too does the terminology we use to describe it. The precision required in forming the plural “hypotheses” mirrors the precision demanded in scientific inquiry itself.

Consider how the use of hypotheses has changed over time:

• In ancient Greek philosophy, a hypothesis was often a starting point for a logical argument.
• During the Scientific Revolution, the concept of a testable hypothesis became central to the scientific method.
• In modern research, multiple competing hypotheses are often proposed and tested simultaneously.

This evolution underscores the importance of language in shaping our approach to knowledge and discovery.

Enhancing Your Writing Skills

Mastering the plural forms of hypothesis isn’t just about correctness; it’s about enhancing your overall writing skills. Here are some ways this knowledge can elevate your writing:

• Precision : Using the correct form demonstrates attention to detail and precision in thought.
• Credibility : In academic circles, correct usage enhances your credibility as a researcher or writer.
• Clarity : Proper use of singular and plural forms clarifies your ideas, especially when discussing multiple theories.
• Versatility : Understanding Greek-derived plurals improves your ability to handle complex terminology across various fields.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced writers can stumble when it comes to the plural of hypothesis. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them:

• Overuse of the plural : Not every situation calls for the plural form. Use “hypothesis” when discussing a single idea.
• Inconsistency : Stick to “hypotheses” throughout your document for the plural form.
• Pronunciation challenges : Practice saying “hypotheses” (/haɪˈpɒθəsiːz/) to gain confidence in verbal presentations.
• Context confusion : Remember that in general discussion, “hypothesis” might be used more loosely, but in academic writing, precision is key.

Hypotheses Across Disciplines

While we often associate hypotheses with hard sciences, they play crucial roles across various fields. Let’s explore how different disciplines approach hypothesis formation:

In Psychology

Psychologists use hypotheses to explore human behavior and mental processes. For example:

“Exposure to nature scenes for 30 minutes daily will reduce stress levels in urban office workers, as measured by cortisol levels and self-reported stress scales.”

In Economics

Economists form hypotheses about market behaviors and economic trends:

“Implementing a four-day work week will increase overall productivity and job satisfaction while reducing operational costs for companies with over 500 employees.”

In Literature

Even in literary studies, scholars form hypotheses about textual interpretations or author intentions:

“The recurring moth imagery in Virginia Woolf’s works symbolizes the fragility of human consciousness and the ephemeral nature of life.”

From Hypothesis to Theory: The Scientific Journey

Understanding the plural “hypotheses” is just the beginning. Let’s explore how multiple hypotheses contribute to the development of scientific theories:

• Initial Observation : Scientists notice a phenomenon or pattern.
• Hypothesis Formation : They form one or more hypotheses to explain the observation.
• Experimentation : Researchers design and conduct experiments to test these hypotheses.
• Data Analysis : Results are analyzed to support or refute the hypotheses.
• Refinement : Based on results, hypotheses are refined or new ones are formed.
• Replication : Other scientists attempt to replicate the results.
• Theory Development : After extensive testing and validation of multiple hypotheses, a theory may emerge.

This process underscores the importance of formulating clear, testable hypotheses and understanding when to use singular or plural forms in scientific writing.

Hypotheses in the Digital Age

The digital revolution has transformed how we form and test hypotheses across various fields:

Big Data and Hypothesis Testing

With access to vast amounts of data, researchers can now test multiple hypotheses simultaneously, leading to more robust findings. For instance, in a study on online consumer behavior:

“We analyzed user data from 1 million e-commerce transactions to test five hypotheses about the impact of website design elements on purchase decisions.”

AI and Hypothesis Generation

Artificial Intelligence is now capable of generating hypotheses based on pattern recognition in large datasets. This has led to a new field called “automated science,” where AI suggests hypotheses for human scientists to investigate.

Communicating Hypotheses Effectively

Whether you’re presenting to peers, writing a paper, or explaining your research to the public, clear communication of your hypotheses is crucial:

• Use plain language : While maintaining precision, try to explain your hypotheses in terms a non-expert can understand.
• Provide context : Explain why your hypotheses are important and how they fit into the broader field of study.
• Visualize when possible : Use diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate complex hypotheses.
• Be transparent about limitations : Acknowledge any assumptions or constraints in your hypotheses.

In conclusion, understanding the plural forms of hypothesis is more than a grammatical exercise; it’s a gateway to precise communication in the world of science and beyond. Whether you’re writing a dissertation , engaging in a scholarly debate, or simply satisfying your curiosity about language, this knowledge empowers you to express complex ideas with clarity and confidence.

Remember, language is a tool for conveying thoughts and ideas. By mastering nuances like the correct plural of hypothesis, you sharpen this tool, making your communication more effective and your ideas more impactful. So embrace the beauty of “hypotheses,” and let it elevate your writing and thinking to new heights.

Emily Olivia is an experienced writer specializing in grammar and English language topics. With a passion for clarity and precision, she shares valuable insights on synonyms, grammar rules, and writing tips to help readers enhance their language skills on Grammar Path.

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"What's the plural of hypothesis?"

The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses .

Definition of hypothesis:

A supposition or assumption based on limited evidence which has yet to be proven or disproven.

Is 'Hypothesis' Plural or Singular?

The plural form of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses." This is because "hypothesis" is a Greek-derived word that follows the rules for forming plurals of Greek-derived words.

In general, Greek-derived words that end in "-is" form the plural by changing the ending to "-es."

The plural of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses" because it is a borrowed word from the Greek language, and it follows the rules of Greek grammar for forming the plural.

In Greek, the plural of "hupothesis," the Greek word from which "hypothesis" is derived, is "hupotheses."

Other examples of Greek-derived words that follow this pattern include "analysis" (singular) and "analyses" (plural), "crisis" (singular) and "crises" (plural), and "thesis" (singular) and "theses" (plural).

The word "hypothesis" comes from the Greek word "hypothesis," which means "base," "foundation," or "assumption."

In scientific contexts, hypotheses are educated guesses or proposed explanations for a phenomenon that is based on limited evidence and is used as a starting point for further investigation.

Plural of Hypothesis Example Sentences

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between the singular and plural forms of the word "hypothesis":

Singular: " A hypothesis has been proposed to explain the sudden increase in the number of earthquakes in the region" .

Plural: " Two hypotheses have been proposed to explain the sudden increase in the number of earthquakes in the region. One suggests that the earthquakes are caused by tectonic activity, while the other suggests that they are caused by the injection of wastewater into the ground" .

Singular: " The hypothesis that the Earth is flat has been debunked by scientific evidence" .

Plural: " There are many hypotheses about the origins of the universe, but the most widely accepted one is the Big Bang theory" .

Throughout history multiple hypotheses were put forward to explain why objects tended to fall to Earth when dropped. The Greeks believed it was because the Earth was the center of the Universe.

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothesis

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