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

The Japanese economy is showing some signs of improvement, a slew of data indicated Friday, amid heightened speculation over the timing of the Bank of Japan’s next interest-rate hike.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He said that while there has been speculation that Ms Ferguson, or indeed Andrew, could write a tell-all memoir, "I think the publishers would be wary of taking on the ex Duchess of York's story."

Read more on BBC

The revelations come at a politically awkward time for Reeves, who is preparing for a Budget next month amidst speculation the government could break a manifesto commitment not to raise income tax.

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The Council’s refusal to comment has made it open season on speculation and rumors.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

There has been growing speculation the government could break its manifesto pledge and increase income tax.

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Related Words

• belief 
• conjecture 
• opinion 
• thought