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

"I would also like to remind the public that this remains a live investigation and to avoid any speculation – both online and in the community," he said.

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O'Dowd said speculation and "confusion in messaging" ahead of the budget had been difficult for everyone.

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Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has denied leaks ahead of the Budget have damaged the economy, following criticism the speculation has "caused paralysis among businesses and consumers".

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The mayor's office appeared to welcome the proposed changes but said they would not comment on "speculation" and would wait before making any concrete preparations.

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And Yale hasn’t won one since 1927, a time when dancing the Charleston and reckless stock-market speculation were all the rage.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• belief 
• conjecture 
• opinion 
• thought