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Plural of Hypothesis

The Quick Answer

The Plural of Hypothesis

correct tick

Are You Good at Plurals?

The standard rules for forming the plurals.

Type Example of Type Forming the Plural Plural
Most Nouns add s
Noun Ending s, sh, ch, x or z add es
Nouns ending [consonant] o add either s or es
(There are no rules for this - you have to know.)
Nouns ending [vowel] o add s
Nouns ending [consonant] y change the y to an i and add es
Nouns ending [vowel] y add s
Nouns ending f or fe ves and/or s
(There are no rules - you have to know.)
Nouns ending is
change the "is" to "es"
Exceptions some nouns undergo a vowel or letters change
More exceptions some nouns do not change at all
Foreign rulings some nouns adopt foreign rulings

Why Is There Confusion over the Plural of Hypothesis?

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This page was written by Craig Shrives .

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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

1641, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing hypothesis

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

Articles Related to hypothesis

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 20 Jun. 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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ESLBUZZ

Plural of Hypothesis: Rules and Examples

By: Author ESLBUZZ

Posted on Last updated: November 13, 2023

Sharing is caring!

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

Plural of Hypothesis: Rules and Examples

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:

Child Children
Foot Feet
Mouse Mice
Tooth Teeth
Person People
Goose Geese
Man Men
Woman Women

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.\"

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the difference between hypothesis and hypotheses?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

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

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"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the grammar rules for forming plurals?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

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.

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Why is it important to use the correct plural form?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

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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What’s the Plural of Hypothesis?

  • November 19, 2022

can hypothesis be plural

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.

The correct use of hypotheses (plural) in setences.

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”?

"Hypothesis" (singular) in sentence examples.

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.

crises
hypothesishypotheses

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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"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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The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses

can hypothesis be plural

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

mm

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.

can hypothesis be plural

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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. 

can hypothesis be plural

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

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Hypotheses vs Hypothesis: Deciding Between Similar Terms

Hypotheses vs Hypothesis: Deciding Between Similar Terms

Are you confused about the difference between hypotheses and hypothesis? You’re not alone. Many people use these terms interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between hypotheses and hypothesis and why it’s important to use the correct term.

Let’s clarify which of the two words is the proper one to use. The answer is that both words are correct, but they have different meanings. Hypotheses is the plural form of hypothesis. A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or prediction for a phenomenon that can be tested through experimentation or observation. Hypotheses, on the other hand, refers to multiple hypotheses.

Now that we’ve established the definitions of these terms, let’s dive deeper into why they matter. Understanding the difference between hypotheses and hypothesis is crucial for clear communication in scientific research. Using the wrong term can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, which can ultimately impact the accuracy and validity of research findings.

Define Hypotheses

According to the scientific method, a hypothesis is a statement that can be tested and proven or disproven based on observable evidence. It is an educated guess or prediction about a phenomenon or relationship between variables. Hypotheses are often used in scientific research to guide the design of experiments and to help scientists make predictions about the outcomes of their experiments.

Hypotheses are typically written as statements that can be either true or false. They are based on previous research, observations, and theories about the topic being studied. A hypothesis must be testable and falsifiable, meaning that it can be proven wrong if the evidence does not support it.

For example, a hypothesis might be: “If a person drinks caffeine before going to bed, they will have trouble falling asleep.” This hypothesis can be tested by having participants drink caffeine before bed and measuring their sleep quality.

Define Hypothesis

The term “hypothesis” is often used interchangeably with “hypotheses,” but it can also refer to a single statement or idea that is being tested. In this context, a hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon that can be tested through observation or experimentation.

For example, a hypothesis might be: “The more hours a student studies for an exam, the higher their grade will be.” This hypothesis can be tested by comparing the study hours of different students with their exam grades.

It is important to note that a hypothesis is not a proven fact, but rather a proposed explanation that requires testing and evidence to support or refute it. A hypothesis can be revised or refined based on new evidence or observations, and it may ultimately be rejected if it is not supported by the data.

Key differences between hypotheses and hypothesis
Factor Hypotheses Hypothesis
Definition A statement that can be tested and proven or disproven based on observable evidence A proposed explanation for a phenomenon that can be tested through observation or experimentation
Usage Used to guide the design of experiments and to help scientists make predictions about the outcomes of their experiments Used to propose an explanation for a phenomenon that requires testing and evidence to support or refute it
Number Plural Singular

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the correct word in a sentence is crucial to effective communication. Misusing words can lead to confusion and a lack of clarity in your writing. In this section, we will discuss how to properly use the words “hypotheses” and “hypothesis” in a sentence.

How To Use “Hypotheses” In A Sentence

“Hypotheses” is the plural form of “hypothesis,” which means a proposed explanation for a phenomenon. Here are some examples of how to use “hypotheses” in a sentence:

  • Scientists developed several hypotheses to explain the unusual behavior of the species.
  • The study tested three different hypotheses to determine the cause of the problem.
  • After analyzing the data, the researchers rejected all but one of their hypotheses.

As you can see, “hypotheses” is used when referring to multiple proposed explanations or theories.

How To Use “Hypothesis” In A Sentence

“Hypothesis” is the singular form of “hypotheses.” Here are some examples of how to use “hypothesis” in a sentence:

  • The scientist proposed a hypothesis to explain the behavior of the species.
  • The study tested one hypothesis to determine the cause of the problem.
  • After analyzing the data, the researcher confirmed their hypothesis.

As you can see, “hypothesis” is used when referring to a single proposed explanation or theory.

More Examples Of Hypotheses & Hypothesis Used In Sentences

In order to further understand the difference between hypotheses and hypothesis, let’s take a look at some examples of how they are used in sentences.

Examples Of Using Hypotheses In A Sentence

  • Scientists have developed several hypotheses about the cause of the disease.
  • One of the hypotheses is that the increase in temperature is due to climate change.
  • There are many hypotheses about how the universe was formed.
  • Researchers are currently testing several hypotheses to explain the behavior of the new species of animal.
  • He proposed several hypotheses to explain the results of the experiment.
  • Many hypotheses have been proposed to explain the disappearance of the ancient civilization.
  • The hypotheses put forward by the team of scientists were met with skepticism by the scientific community.
  • She presented her hypotheses to the class and asked for feedback.
  • Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain the mysterious lights in the sky.
  • Scientists are currently testing a new hypothesis about the effects of the new drug.

Examples Of Using Hypothesis In A Sentence

  • The hypothesis that the earth is flat has been disproven.
  • He presented his hypothesis about the cause of the problem to the team.
  • Her hypothesis about the solution to the puzzle turned out to be correct.
  • The hypothesis that the company will go bankrupt has caused panic among investors.
  • His hypothesis about the origin of the species was groundbreaking.
  • The hypothesis that the universe is expanding has been supported by recent observations.
  • She tested her hypothesis by conducting a series of experiments.
  • The hypothesis that the new product will be successful is based on market research.
  • Scientists are currently working to develop a hypothesis about the origins of life on earth.
  • His hypothesis about the relationship between the two variables was confirmed by the data.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to scientific research and analysis, the terms “hypotheses” and “hypothesis” are often used interchangeably. However, this can lead to common mistakes that can undermine the validity of research and confuse readers. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using “Hypotheses” And “Hypothesis” Interchangeably

The most common mistake is using “hypotheses” and “hypothesis” interchangeably. While they may seem similar, they have different meanings and uses in scientific research. A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, while hypotheses are multiple proposed explanations. Using these terms interchangeably can lead to confusion and inaccuracies in research.

Confusing Singular And Plural Forms

Another common mistake is confusing the singular and plural forms of these terms. “Hypothesis” is the singular form, while “hypotheses” is the plural form. Using the wrong form can lead to grammatical errors and confusion for readers.

Misusing The Terms In Research

It’s important to use the correct term in the appropriate context when conducting research. Misusing these terms can lead to errors in data analysis, misinterpretation of results, and ultimately, incorrect conclusions. Researchers should take the time to understand the difference between “hypothesis” and “hypotheses” and use them correctly in their research.

Tips To Avoid Making These Mistakes

Here are some tips to help avoid making these common mistakes:

  • Always double-check the correct form of the term before using it in research or analysis.
  • Use a dictionary or thesaurus to ensure that you are using the correct term in the correct context.
  • Ask a colleague or supervisor to review your work to ensure that you are using the correct terminology.

Context Matters

When it comes to scientific research, the choice between using the plural form “hypotheses” or the singular form “hypothesis” can depend greatly on the context in which they are being used. Both forms are valid and widely used, but the decision to use one over the other can impact the clarity and accuracy of the research being conducted.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some different contexts and how the choice between “hypotheses” and “hypothesis” might change:

1. Experimental Design

When designing an experiment, researchers typically start with a hypothesis – a proposed explanation for a phenomenon that can be tested through experimentation. In this context, the singular form “hypothesis” is most commonly used. For example:

  • Hypothesis: Increasing the amount of fertilizer will result in larger tomato plants.

Once the experiment is designed, however, the researcher may need to develop multiple hypotheses to test different aspects of the phenomenon being studied. In this context, the plural form “hypotheses” would be more appropriate:

  • Hypotheses: Increasing the amount of fertilizer will result in larger tomato plants, increasing the amount of water will result in more fruit production, and increasing the amount of sunlight will result in faster growth.

2. Statistical Analysis

After conducting experiments and collecting data, researchers often use statistical analysis to determine whether their findings support or refute their hypotheses. In this context, the plural form “hypotheses” is typically used to refer to the set of hypotheses being tested:

  • The hypotheses being tested were: There is no significant difference in test scores between students who study for 30 minutes versus 60 minutes per day.

However, when reporting the results of statistical tests, the singular form “hypothesis” is used to refer to the specific hypothesis being tested:

  • The null hypothesis was: There is no significant difference in test scores between students who study for 30 minutes versus 60 minutes per day.

3. Literature Review

When conducting a literature review, researchers may need to evaluate multiple hypotheses proposed by different authors. In this context, the plural form “hypotheses” is used to refer to the set of hypotheses being evaluated:

  • The hypotheses proposed by various authors include: Climate change is causing an increase in the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, the use of fossil fuels is the primary contributor to climate change, and reducing carbon emissions is the most effective way to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

However, when summarizing the findings of a single study, the singular form “hypothesis” is used to refer to the specific hypothesis being tested:

  • The study’s hypothesis was: Increasing the amount of exercise will lead to a decrease in blood pressure.

Overall, the choice between “hypotheses” and “hypothesis” can have a significant impact on the clarity and accuracy of scientific research. By understanding the different contexts in which these terms are used, researchers can ensure that their writing is clear and precise.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using hypotheses and hypothesis are generally straightforward, there are certain exceptions to be aware of. These exceptions typically arise in specific contexts where the standard usage may not apply.

Scientific Research

In scientific research, the term “hypothesis” is typically used to refer to a specific statement or prediction that is being tested through experimentation or observation. In this context, the term “hypotheses” is often used to refer to multiple hypotheses that are being tested simultaneously.

However, there are some cases where the singular form “hypothesis” may be used to refer to multiple hypotheses that are related or interconnected in some way. For example, a researcher may have several hypotheses that are all based on the same underlying theory or concept.

Statistical Analysis

In statistical analysis, the term “hypothesis” is often used to refer to a null hypothesis, which is a statement that assumes there is no significant difference between two groups or variables. The alternative hypothesis, in contrast, assumes that there is a significant difference between the groups or variables being compared.

However, there are some cases where the term “hypotheses” may be used to refer to multiple alternative hypotheses that are being compared against the null hypothesis. For example, a researcher may be testing several different hypotheses to determine which one provides the best explanation for a particular phenomenon.

In philosophy, the term “hypothesis” is often used to refer to a tentative explanation or theory that is being proposed for further investigation. In this context, the term “hypotheses” may be used to refer to multiple competing theories or explanations that are being evaluated.

However, there are some cases where the term “hypothesis” may be used more broadly to refer to any kind of tentative or speculative claim. For example, a philosopher may propose a hypothesis about the nature of consciousness that is not based on empirical evidence, but rather on logical reasoning or intuition.

While the rules for using hypotheses and hypothesis are generally straightforward, it is important to be aware of these exceptions in order to use these terms correctly in specific contexts. By understanding the nuances of these terms, you can communicate your ideas more effectively and avoid any confusion or ambiguity.

Practice Exercises

Understanding the difference between hypotheses and hypothesis is crucial for anyone involved in research or scientific studies. Here are some practice exercises that can help readers improve their understanding and use of these terms in sentences:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blanks

Complete the following sentences by choosing the correct form of hypotheses or hypothesis:

  • The ________ of this study is that there is a positive correlation between exercise and mental health.
  • Scientists use ________ to test their theories and make predictions about the world.
  • Before conducting any research, it’s important to formulate clear and testable ________.
  • One of the main differences between a theory and a ________ is that a theory is a well-established explanation for a phenomenon, while a ________ is a proposed explanation that needs to be tested.

Answer Key:

  • theory, hypothesis

Exercise 2: Identify The Correct Form

Choose the correct form of hypotheses or hypothesis to complete the following sentences:

  • Scientists use ________ to guide their research and make predictions about the world.
  • It’s important to test your ________ before drawing any conclusions from your research.
  • One of the main goals of a scientific study is to either support or reject the ________ that were formulated at the beginning.
  • When conducting research, it’s important to remain open to new ________ that may arise during the study.

Exercise 3: Create Your Own Hypotheses

Think of a research question that you’re interested in and create two hypotheses to test it. Then, write a brief explanation of why you chose those hypotheses and how you would go about testing them.

Research Question: Does listening to music improve memory retention?

  • Hypothesis 1: Participants who listen to music while studying will remember more information than participants who study in silence.
  • Hypothesis 2: Participants who listen to music with lyrics while studying will remember less information than participants who listen to instrumental music or study in silence.

Explanation: I chose these hypotheses because they both make clear predictions about the relationship between music and memory retention. To test them, I would recruit a group of participants and randomly assign them to one of three conditions: listening to instrumental music, listening to music with lyrics, or studying in silence. Then, I would give them a list of words to remember and test their memory retention immediately after studying and again a week later.

After delving into the world of hypotheses and hypothesis, it is clear that these terms are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings in the scientific community.

The key takeaways from this article include:

  • A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon that can be tested through experimentation or observation.
  • Hypotheses are often used in scientific research to guide the design of experiments and the interpretation of results.
  • The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses, and it is important to use the correct plural form when discussing multiple hypotheses.
  • While hypothesis can also be used as a singular noun, it is less common and may be considered nonstandard.
  • It is important to understand the difference between hypotheses and theories, as they are not interchangeable terms.

By continuing to learn about grammar and language use, readers can improve their ability to communicate effectively and accurately in both written and spoken contexts.

Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.

can hypothesis be plural

What is the Plural of Hypothesis?

past tense for

What is the plural form of the word "hypothesis"? The plural form (meaning multiples) of the base word "hypothesis" is "hypotheses." Nouns can identify places, people, animals, and other things. They are the basic materials required to construct sentences. There are different types of nouns , including proper nouns , common nouns , compound nouns , collective nouns , abstract nouns , and countable and uncountable nouns.

What is the plural of Hypothesis?

The plural form of the word "hypothesis" is "hypotheses". Forming plural nouns can be difficult. To form the plural form of the word, you'll base it on the last letter or last two letters of the singular word form.

The word "hypothesis" is considered a common noun .

Sentence examples for the plural of "Hypothesis"

  • Example 1: There are multiple hypotheses.
  • Example 2: I can see multiple hypotheses.
  • Example 3: Over there could be more hypotheses.

For more examples, see the definition of the word hypothesis .

My experience with plural forms...

When it comes to plural forms, I was always confused! Just like you, I would be looking up the singular words plural formation...

Here are some really simple tricks that helps me remember plural forms:

  • Did you know that most plurals are formed by adding an -s to the end of the word? Yes!
  • If the noun ends in a consonant plus "–y," form the plural by swapping the "–y" for "–ies."
  • If the noun ends in "–ch," "-s," "-sh," "-x," or "-z," form the plural by adding "–es."

can hypothesis be plural

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can hypothesis be plural

About the author

Dalia Y.: Dalia is an English Major and linguistics expert with an additional degree in Psychology. Dalia has featured articles on Forbes, Inc, Fast Company, Grammarly, and many more. She covers English, ESL, and all things grammar on GrammarBrain.

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can hypothesis be plural

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can hypothesis be plural

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  • Abbreviations
  • Editorial Policy
  • 1.1 Etymology
  • 1.2 Pronunciation
  • 1.3.1 Synonyms
  • 1.3.2 Derived terms
  • 1.3.3 Translations
  • 2.1 Etymology
  • 2.2 Pronunciation
  • 2.3.1 Declension

Recorded since 1596, from Middle French hypothese , from Late Latin hypothesis , from Ancient Greek ὑπόθεσις ( hupóthesis , “ base, basis of an argument, supposition ” , literally “ a placing under ” ) , itself from ὑποτίθημι ( hupotíthēmi , “ I set before, suggest ” ) , from ὑπό ( hupó , “ below ” ) + τίθημι ( títhēmi , “ I put, place ” ) .

Pronunciation

  • ( UK ) IPA ( key ) : /haɪˈpɒθɪsɪs/ , /hɪˈpɒθɪsɪs/ , /həˈpɒθɪsɪs/ , /-əsəs/ , /-əsɪs/
  • ( US ) IPA ( key ) : /haɪˈpɑː.θə.sɪs/
Audio ( ): ( )

hypothesis ( plural hypotheses )

  • 2001 September 27, Terrie E. Moffitt, Avshalom Caspi, Michael Rutter, Phil A. Silva, Sex Differences in Antisocial Behaviour: Conduct Disorder, Delinquency, and Violence in the Dunedin Longitudinal Study ‎ [1] , Cambridge University Press , →ISBN , page 151 : This hypothesis goes by many names, including group resistence, the threshold effect, and the gender paradox. Because the hypothesis holds such wide appeal, it is worth revisiting the logic behind it. The hypothesis is built on the factual observation that fewer females than males act antisocially.
  • 2005 , Ronald H. Pine, http://www.csicop.org/specialarticles/show/intelligent_design_or_no_model_creationism , 15 October 2005: Far too many of us have been taught in school that a scientist, in the course of trying to figure something out, will first come up with a " hypothesis " (a guess or surmise—not necessarily even an "educated" guess). ... [But t]he word " hypothesis " should be used, in science, exclusively for a reasoned, sensible, knowledge-informed explanation for why some phenomenon exists or occurs. An hypothesis can be as yet untested; can have already been tested; may have been falsified; may have not yet been falsified, although tested; or may have been tested in a myriad of ways countless times without being falsified; and it may come to be universally accepted by the scientific community. An understanding of the word " hypothesis ," as used in science, requires a grasp of the principles underlying Occam's Razor and Karl Popper's thought in regard to " falsifiability "—including the notion that any respectable scientific hypothesis must, in principle, be "capable of" being proven wrong (if it should, in fact, just happen to be wrong), but none can ever be proved to be true. One aspect of a proper understanding of the word " hypothesis ," as used in science, is that only a vanishingly small percentage of hypotheses could ever potentially become a theory.
  • ( general ) An assumption taken to be true for the purpose of argument or investigation .
  • ( grammar ) The antecedent of a conditional statement .
  • supposition
  • educated guess
  • See also Thesaurus:supposition

Derived terms

  • alternative hypothesis
  • aquatic ape hypothesis
  • Avogadro's hypothesis
  • conspiracy hypothesis
  • continuum hypothesis
  • cosmic censorship hypothesis
  • documentary hypothesis
  • efficient market hypothesis
  • ergodic hypothesis
  • expectations hypothesis
  • Fisher hypothesis
  • Gaia hypothesis
  • generalized continuum hypothesis
  • God hypothesis
  • Griesbach hypothesis
  • hypothesize
  • hypothetical
  • hypothetically
  • interface hypothesis
  • just-world hypothesis
  • level-ordering hypothesis
  • mafia hypothesis
  • Medea hypothesis
  • Monro-Kellie hypothesis
  • null hypothesis
  • Omphalos hypothesis
  • Out of India hypothesis
  • ovulatory shift hypothesis
  • permanent income hypothesis
  • Prout's hypothesis
  • Rare Earth hypothesis
  • Red Queen hypothesis
  • Riemann hypothesis
  • Sapir-Whorf hypothesis
  • Schinzel's hypothesis H
  • sexy son hypothesis
  • simulation hypothesis
  • swoon hypothesis
  • trickle-down hypothesis
  • trickle down hypothesis
  • Wellhausen's hypothesis
  • working hypothesis
  • zombie hypothesis

Translations

        (farḍiyya)   (varkac),   (hipotʻez) ,   (hipóteza),   (prypuščénnje)   (onukolpo)     (hipotéza)     (gaa syut ), (gaa cit ), (gaa ding )   (jiǎshuō),   (jiǎshè),   (jiǎdìng)     ,             ,                   (hiṗoteza)         (ypóthesi)   (hipotezá),     (hash'ará)     (parikalpanā)                 (かせつ, kasetsu) (gipoteza),   (boljam)   (sɑmmaʼtekam)   (gaseol) (grîmane) ,   (gipoteza)   (som mut ti thān)             (hipotéza)     (taamaglal), (gipotez)           (farzya)   (farziye),   (engâšte),   (pendâšte)     ,                 (gipóteza),     (predpoložénije)         ,             , (farziya), (gipoteza) (gipoteza)   (sǒm-mút-dtì-tǎan)   ,   ,     (hipóteza),   (prypúščennja),   (zasnóvok)   (farziyā) (gipotëza)   ,     ( )
  (prypuščénnje)     (predpoložénie)       (jiǎshè),   (jiǎdìng),   (jiǎshuō),   (qiántí)     ,           ,     ,   ,               (hanakhá)   ,         (かてい, katei)   (gajeong) (grîmane) (takdir)             ,         (predpoložénije),     (gipóteza)           (prypúščennja)   ,  
      (jiǎshè)               (gajeongbeop)            
)     )     , )   , )   )   (farziye), )   (negare) )     )     )  

Borrowed from Ancient Greek ὑπόθεσις ( hupóthesis , “ hypothesis ” , noun ) .

  • ( Classical Latin ) IPA ( key ) : /hyˈpo.tʰe.sis/ , [hʏˈpɔt̪ʰɛs̠ɪs̠]
  • ( modern Italianate Ecclesiastical ) IPA ( key ) : /iˈpo.te.sis/ , [iˈpɔːt̪es̬is]

hypothesis   f ( genitive hypothesis or hypotheseōs or hypothesios ) ; third declension

Case Singular Plural









1 Found sometimes in Medieval and New Latin.

  • There is also genitive plural hypotheseōn .
  • The genitive singular is also spelled hypotheseωs and the genitive plural hypotheseωn .

can hypothesis be plural

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Whats the Plural of Hypothesis: Understanding Grammatical Number

  • The word “hypotheses” is the plural form of “hypothesis.”
  • “Hypothesis” and “hypotheses” are used to propose explanations for phenomena, with usage depending on the number.
  • The origin of “hypothesis” traces back to Greek, affecting its pluralization in English.

In the most straightforward terms, the plural of “hypothesis” is “hypotheses.” This transformation follows a specific pattern seen in words that end in “-is,” with the “-is” changing to “-es” to form the plural. Understanding the correct use of the singular and plural forms is fundamental for both written and spoken English, especially within academic and scientific contexts where the word is frequently employed.

What’s the Plural of “Hypothesis”?

Singular to Plural Transformation

The transformation from singular to plural for the word “hypothesis” involves altering the ending of the word:

  • Change the “is” to “es”
  • This results in the plural form “hypotheses”

Pronunciation

The plural form is pronounced as “hī-ˈpä-thə-ˌsēz.” It’s essential to note that the difference is not just in spelling but also in pronunciation.

Usage of Hypothesis and Hypotheses

Here is a simple breakdown of when to use each form:

Singular (Hypothesis)Plural (Hypotheses)
Refers to one assumption or proposed explanationRefers to two or more assumptions or proposed explanations

Examples in Sentences

  • Singular : The scientist tested the hypothesis to see if it was valid.
  • Plural : After many experiments, all the hypotheses were evaluated for accuracy.

What’s the Singular of Hypothesis?

The singular form of hypothesis is “hypothesis.” To assist in understanding, consider the following tables:

TermDefinition
HypothesisA statement or idea to be tested through scientific method

Another table illustrating the usage in a sentence:

Sentence Usage
“The scientist formulated a about the cause of the phenomenon.”

Here are key points to remember about the term “hypothesis”:

  • It is the singular form used when referring to one proposed explanation.
  • A hypothesis can later become a theory if it is supported by substantial evidence.
  • In the realm of science, it is a statement subject to verification or falsification through research.

Defining the Word “Hypothesis”

The term hypothesis originates from the Greek word meaning base or foundation . It is commonly understood as a starting point for scientific inquiry, a proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation. In its essence, a hypothesis is a tentative assumption designed to test its logical or empirical consequences.

In scientific reasoning, a hypothesis serves as a provisional idea whose merit requires evaluation. It is not just a wild guess, but an informed conjecture that sets the stage for experimentation and observation.

Key Attributes of a Hypothesis:

  • Conjectural : A hypothesis is an educated guess about the relationship between two or more variables.
  • Testable : It must be possible to prove that the hypothesis is true or false through evidence.
  • Predictive : A hypothesis should make predictions that can be verified through testing.
  • Falsifiable : To be scientific, a hypothesis must be structured in a way that it can be refuted by evidence.

Hypothesis in Conditional Statements:

Part of Conditional StatementRole of Hypothesis
Antecedent (If clause)Contains the hypothesis
Consequent (Then clause)Outcome or prediction

For example, in the statement “If molecules are exposed to higher temperatures, then their kinetic energy will increase,” the hypothesis is that higher temperatures affect molecular kinetic energy.

Hypothesis (Singular) Used in Sentences

Examples in Sentences:

  • The scientist formulated a hypothesis about the effect of light on plant growth.
  • After analyzing the data, she presented her hypothesis concerning the animals’ migration patterns.
  • His hypothesis that increased sunlight would enhance energy efficiency remains to be tested.
  • In her thesis, the hypothesis revolved around the impact of social media on communication skills.
  • It is key for a hypothesis to be clear and concise for it to lead to meaningful scientific investigation.
Structure of a Sentence with “Hypothesis”Example
He a hypothesis.
The hypothesis a potential solution.

Regarding the use of “hypothesis” in academic writing, it is important to:

  • Identify the key variable : Highlight what the hypothesis is specifically attempting to test or predict.
  • State the expected outcome : Clarify the predicted result or effect that the hypothesis addresses.
Key Component of HypothesisAs Used in a Sentence
The hypothesis focused on the variable of classroom size.
Her hypothesis anticipated a positive outcome from the new diet.

Tips for crafting a hypothesis :

  • Keep it simple and testable.
  • Ensure it is backed by existing literature and theories when applicable.
  • Tailor it to be specific , addressing a particular phenomenon or set of data.
  • A hypothesis must be falsifiable ; that is, it must be phrased in a way that makes it possible to reject if it is not true.
  • Avoid complex jargon when constructing a hypothesis; clarity ensures that others can understand and test it.
  • Remember, a hypothesis is not a question, but rather a statement that reflects what the researcher believes to be true.

Hypotheses (Plural) Used in Sentences

In the realm of research, it’s common to encounter:

SingularPlural
hypothesishypotheses

Example Sentences:

  • The scientists reviewed several competing hypotheses before commencing their experiment.
  • Their hypotheses centered on the potential effects of climate change on marine biodiversity.
  • During the symposium, the researcher explained her methods for testing the various hypotheses .

Using “hypotheses” precisely:

  • Clarity : Each of the hypotheses represented a possible explanation for the phenomenon observed.
  • Context : In scientific discussions, it’s paramount to present hypotheses in a structured manner.
  • Comparison : The study contrasted traditional hypotheses with innovative conjectures emerging in the field.

In day-to-day language or teaching scenarios, one might encounter scenarios such as:

  • The teacher asked the students to write down their own hypotheses about the outcome of the chemical reaction.
  • The book included several interesting hypotheses about the origins of language.

Origin of the Word “Hypothesis”

Ancient Greek is the initial source of the word “hypothesis.” Specifically, it derives from two Greek words: “ὑπό” meaning ‘under,’ and “θέσις” meaning ‘a placing’ or ‘proposition.’ The combination of these elements resulted in “ὑπόθεσις” (hypothesis), signifying ‘a placing under’ or ‘foundation’.

Greek OriginMeaning
ὑπό (hypo)below, under
θέσις (thesis)placing, setting

Transitioning into Late Latin , the term “ hypothesis ” maintained its original Greek meaning. By the time it reached the Middle French , as “hypothese,” it was already well-incorporated into the lexicon of scientific and philosophical discourse.

Language EvolutionForm
Late Latinhypothesis
Middle Frenchhypothese

In English, “hypothesis” retains the essence of its Greek origins: a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, a foundation for further investigation, or a premise to be tested.

Key Developments :

  • Integral to scientific method
  • Used academically to propose theories

To construct the plural form of “hypothesis,” English follows a standard pattern seen with words ending in ‘-is.’

  • Singular: hypothesis
  • Plural: hypotheses

Usage in English implies not just a simple carrying over of a term, but an adaptation of the concept it represents — underpinning the advancement of knowledge, it supports theoretical frameworks and empirical research.

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is   Plural

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Is hypothesis plural

Hypothesis is singular singular both plural and singular both plural and singular singular plural plural both plural and singular plural .

The plural singular singular plural singular plural singular plural plural of hypothesis is hypotheses .

How to say hypothesis: How to pronounce hypothesis

How to say hypotheses: How to pronounce hypotheses

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What Is a Hypothesis? (Science)

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A hypothesis (plural hypotheses) is a proposed explanation for an observation. The definition depends on the subject.

In science, a hypothesis is part of the scientific method. It is a prediction or explanation that is tested by an experiment. Observations and experiments may disprove a scientific hypothesis, but can never entirely prove one.

In the study of logic, a hypothesis is an if-then proposition, typically written in the form, "If X , then Y ."

In common usage, a hypothesis is simply a proposed explanation or prediction, which may or may not be tested.

Writing a Hypothesis

Most scientific hypotheses are proposed in the if-then format because it's easy to design an experiment to see whether or not a cause and effect relationship exists between the independent variable and the dependent variable . The hypothesis is written as a prediction of the outcome of the experiment.

Null Hypothesis and Alternative Hypothesis

Statistically, it's easier to show there is no relationship between two variables than to support their connection. So, scientists often propose the null hypothesis . The null hypothesis assumes changing the independent variable will have no effect on the dependent variable.

In contrast, the alternative hypothesis suggests changing the independent variable will have an effect on the dependent variable. Designing an experiment to test this hypothesis can be trickier because there are many ways to state an alternative hypothesis.

For example, consider a possible relationship between getting a good night's sleep and getting good grades. The null hypothesis might be stated: "The number of hours of sleep students get is unrelated to their grades" or "There is no correlation between hours of sleep and grades."

An experiment to test this hypothesis might involve collecting data, recording average hours of sleep for each student and grades. If a student who gets eight hours of sleep generally does better than students who get four hours of sleep or 10 hours of sleep, the hypothesis might be rejected.

But the alternative hypothesis is harder to propose and test. The most general statement would be: "The amount of sleep students get affects their grades." The hypothesis might also be stated as "If you get more sleep, your grades will improve" or "Students who get nine hours of sleep have better grades than those who get more or less sleep."

In an experiment, you can collect the same data, but the statistical analysis is less likely to give you a high confidence limit.

Usually, a scientist starts out with the null hypothesis. From there, it may be possible to propose and test an alternative hypothesis, to narrow down the relationship between the variables.

Example of a Hypothesis

Examples of a hypothesis include:

  • If you drop a rock and a feather, (then) they will fall at the same rate.
  • Plants need sunlight in order to live. (if sunlight, then life)
  • Eating sugar gives you energy. (if sugar, then energy)
  • White, Jay D.  Research in Public Administration . Conn., 1998.
  • Schick, Theodore, and Lewis Vaughn.  How to Think about Weird Things: Critical Thinking for a New Age . McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2002.
  • Null Hypothesis Examples
  • Examples of Independent and Dependent Variables
  • Difference Between Independent and Dependent Variables
  • Null Hypothesis Definition and Examples
  • Definition of a Hypothesis
  • What Are the Elements of a Good Hypothesis?
  • Six Steps of the Scientific Method
  • Independent Variable Definition and Examples
  • What Are Examples of a Hypothesis?
  • Understanding Simple vs Controlled Experiments
  • Scientific Method Flow Chart
  • Scientific Method Vocabulary Terms
  • What Is a Testable Hypothesis?
  • What 'Fail to Reject' Means in a Hypothesis Test
  • How To Design a Science Fair Experiment
  • What Is an Experiment? Definition and Design

TexTribe

Plural of Hypothesis: The Correct Form for American English

plural of hypothesis

As a professional copywriting journalist, I often come across language nuances that can be tricky to navigate. One such nuance is the correct plural of “hypothesis” in American English. Understanding and using the correct plural form is crucial for effective communication. Let’s explore this topic further.

The Singular and Plural of Hypothesis

  • Singular : Hypothesis
  • Plural : Hypotheses

The plural form of “hypothesis” is “hypotheses.” This transformation follows a common pattern in English where nouns of Greek origin ending in “-is” change to “-es” in the plural.

Understanding Hypothesis

Definition of hypothesis, usage of hypothesis.

In usage, “hypothesis” often implies a level of uncertainty and is used to express an idea that has not yet been proven but is under investigation. In scientific research, hypotheses are subject to rigorous testing and validation.

Use of Hypothesis in Sentences

  • Singular : “Her hypothesis about the correlation between sleep patterns and productivity was intriguing.”
  • Plural : “The researchers tested several hypotheses to determine the most effective treatment method.”
  • Singular : “A good hypothesis should be testable and falsifiable.”
  • Plural : “ Among the various hypotheses, the one related to environmental factors seemed most plausible.
  • Singular : “His hypothesis was later proven to be accurate, changing our understanding of the phenomenon .

Common Mistakes and Confusions

  • Incorrect Plural : Hypothesises, Hypothesi, Hypothesees.
  • Misinterpretation : Confusing a hypothesis (a proposed explanation) with a theory (a well-substantiated explanation).
  • Usage in Non-Scientific Context : Sometimes used incorrectly to mean a guess or a hunch, which lacks the structured reasoning of a hypothesis.

Commonly Asked Questions

  • Q : Can “hypotheses” be used for a single hypothesis? A : No , “hypotheses” is strictly plural and should only be used when referring to more than one hypothesis.
  • Q : Is the word “hypothesis” used outside scientific contexts? A : Yes, it can be used in everyday language to describe an assumption or idea that is yet to be tested or proven.

Understanding the correct usage of “hypothesis” and its plural form “hypotheses” is essential for clear and accurate communication, especially in scientific and academic settings. Remembering this distinction helps maintain the precision so crucial in these domains, thereby facilitating effective discourse and knowledge exchange.

definition of hypothesis

What is the plural of “hypothesis”?

The plural of “hypothesis” is “hypotheses.”

How are hypotheses used in scientific research?

Hypotheses are used as provisional explanations for phenomena in scientific research and guide investigations.

What is the importance of using the correct plural form for “hypothesis”?

Using the correct plural form, “hypotheses,” adheres to the Greek root of the word and ensures clarity and accuracy in communication.

Are there any alternative plural forms for “hypothesis”?

No, there are no alternative plural forms for “hypothesis” in American English.

Are there any spelling and grammar rules for forming plurals that apply to “hypothesis”?

The plural form “hypotheses” follows the rule for nouns ending in “is” by changing the “is” to “es,” reflecting its Greek origin.

How do hypotheses differ from theories and laws?

A hypothesis is a provisional explanation, while theories and laws are more established and comprehensive explanations of phenomena.

Plural of Phenomenon: Demystifying the Confusion

Plural of focus: understanding the forms and usage of the word “focus”, leave a comment cancel reply.

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Definition of hypothesis noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

  • formulate/advance a theory/hypothesis
  • build/construct/create/develop a simple/theoretical/mathematical model
  • develop/establish/provide/use a theoretical/conceptual framework/an algorithm
  • advance/argue/develop the thesis that…
  • explore an idea/a concept/a hypothesis
  • make a prediction/an inference
  • base a prediction/your calculations on something
  • investigate/evaluate/accept/challenge/reject a theory/hypothesis/model
  • design an experiment/a questionnaire/a study/a test
  • do research/an experiment/an analysis
  • make observations/calculations
  • take/record measurements
  • carry out/conduct/perform an experiment/a test/a longitudinal study/observations/clinical trials
  • run an experiment/a simulation/clinical trials
  • repeat an experiment/a test/an analysis
  • replicate a study/the results/the findings
  • observe/study/examine/investigate/assess a pattern/a process/a behavior
  • fund/support the research/project/study
  • seek/provide/get/secure funding for research
  • collect/gather/extract data/information
  • yield data/evidence/similar findings/the same results
  • analyze/examine the data/soil samples/a specimen
  • consider/compare/interpret the results/findings
  • fit the data/model
  • confirm/support/verify a prediction/a hypothesis/the results/the findings
  • prove a conjecture/hypothesis/theorem
  • draw/make/reach the same conclusions
  • read/review the records/literature
  • describe/report an experiment/a study
  • present/publish/summarize the results/findings
  • present/publish/read/review/cite a paper in a scientific journal

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can hypothesis be plural

Plural of hypothesis

Hello dear tutors! Need some help What is plural of hypothesis? Thanks for your answers in advance.

Vitor

noun, plural hypotheses. ... a proposition, or set of propositions, set forth as an explanation for the occurrence of some specified group of phenomena, either asserted merely as a provisional conjecture to guide investigation (working hypothesis) or accepted as highly probable in the light of established facts.

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now you got me curious: in which context would you use this info?

Leonah

The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses. The noun hypothesis adheres to the standard rules for forming the plurals of nouns in English where nouns ending -IS become plural by changing the IS to ES.

Fatima

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Meaning of hypothesis in English

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  • abstraction
  • accepted wisdom
  • afterthought
  • anthropocentrism
  • determinist
  • non-dogmatic
  • non-empirical
  • social Darwinism
  • supersensible
  • the domino theory

hypothesis | American Dictionary

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Research Hypothesis In Psychology: Types, & Examples

Saul Mcleod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul Mcleod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

A research hypothesis, in its plural form “hypotheses,” is a specific, testable prediction about the anticipated results of a study, established at its outset. It is a key component of the scientific method .

Hypotheses connect theory to data and guide the research process towards expanding scientific understanding

Some key points about hypotheses:

  • A hypothesis expresses an expected pattern or relationship. It connects the variables under investigation.
  • It is stated in clear, precise terms before any data collection or analysis occurs. This makes the hypothesis testable.
  • A hypothesis must be falsifiable. It should be possible, even if unlikely in practice, to collect data that disconfirms rather than supports the hypothesis.
  • Hypotheses guide research. Scientists design studies to explicitly evaluate hypotheses about how nature works.
  • For a hypothesis to be valid, it must be testable against empirical evidence. The evidence can then confirm or disprove the testable predictions.
  • Hypotheses are informed by background knowledge and observation, but go beyond what is already known to propose an explanation of how or why something occurs.
Predictions typically arise from a thorough knowledge of the research literature, curiosity about real-world problems or implications, and integrating this to advance theory. They build on existing literature while providing new insight.

Types of Research Hypotheses

Alternative hypothesis.

The research hypothesis is often called the alternative or experimental hypothesis in experimental research.

It typically suggests a potential relationship between two key variables: the independent variable, which the researcher manipulates, and the dependent variable, which is measured based on those changes.

The alternative hypothesis states a relationship exists between the two variables being studied (one variable affects the other).

A hypothesis is a testable statement or prediction about the relationship between two or more variables. It is a key component of the scientific method. Some key points about hypotheses:

  • Important hypotheses lead to predictions that can be tested empirically. The evidence can then confirm or disprove the testable predictions.

In summary, a hypothesis is a precise, testable statement of what researchers expect to happen in a study and why. Hypotheses connect theory to data and guide the research process towards expanding scientific understanding.

An experimental hypothesis predicts what change(s) will occur in the dependent variable when the independent variable is manipulated.

It states that the results are not due to chance and are significant in supporting the theory being investigated.

The alternative hypothesis can be directional, indicating a specific direction of the effect, or non-directional, suggesting a difference without specifying its nature. It’s what researchers aim to support or demonstrate through their study.

Null Hypothesis

The null hypothesis states no relationship exists between the two variables being studied (one variable does not affect the other). There will be no changes in the dependent variable due to manipulating the independent variable.

It states results are due to chance and are not significant in supporting the idea being investigated.

The null hypothesis, positing no effect or relationship, is a foundational contrast to the research hypothesis in scientific inquiry. It establishes a baseline for statistical testing, promoting objectivity by initiating research from a neutral stance.

Many statistical methods are tailored to test the null hypothesis, determining the likelihood of observed results if no true effect exists.

This dual-hypothesis approach provides clarity, ensuring that research intentions are explicit, and fosters consistency across scientific studies, enhancing the standardization and interpretability of research outcomes.

Nondirectional Hypothesis

A non-directional hypothesis, also known as a two-tailed hypothesis, predicts that there is a difference or relationship between two variables but does not specify the direction of this relationship.

It merely indicates that a change or effect will occur without predicting which group will have higher or lower values.

For example, “There is a difference in performance between Group A and Group B” is a non-directional hypothesis.

Directional Hypothesis

A directional (one-tailed) hypothesis predicts the nature of the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable. It predicts in which direction the change will take place. (i.e., greater, smaller, less, more)

It specifies whether one variable is greater, lesser, or different from another, rather than just indicating that there’s a difference without specifying its nature.

For example, “Exercise increases weight loss” is a directional hypothesis.

hypothesis

Falsifiability

The Falsification Principle, proposed by Karl Popper , is a way of demarcating science from non-science. It suggests that for a theory or hypothesis to be considered scientific, it must be testable and irrefutable.

Falsifiability emphasizes that scientific claims shouldn’t just be confirmable but should also have the potential to be proven wrong.

It means that there should exist some potential evidence or experiment that could prove the proposition false.

However many confirming instances exist for a theory, it only takes one counter observation to falsify it. For example, the hypothesis that “all swans are white,” can be falsified by observing a black swan.

For Popper, science should attempt to disprove a theory rather than attempt to continually provide evidence to support a research hypothesis.

Can a Hypothesis be Proven?

Hypotheses make probabilistic predictions. They state the expected outcome if a particular relationship exists. However, a study result supporting a hypothesis does not definitively prove it is true.

All studies have limitations. There may be unknown confounding factors or issues that limit the certainty of conclusions. Additional studies may yield different results.

In science, hypotheses can realistically only be supported with some degree of confidence, not proven. The process of science is to incrementally accumulate evidence for and against hypothesized relationships in an ongoing pursuit of better models and explanations that best fit the empirical data. But hypotheses remain open to revision and rejection if that is where the evidence leads.
  • Disproving a hypothesis is definitive. Solid disconfirmatory evidence will falsify a hypothesis and require altering or discarding it based on the evidence.
  • However, confirming evidence is always open to revision. Other explanations may account for the same results, and additional or contradictory evidence may emerge over time.

We can never 100% prove the alternative hypothesis. Instead, we see if we can disprove, or reject the null hypothesis.

If we reject the null hypothesis, this doesn’t mean that our alternative hypothesis is correct but does support the alternative/experimental hypothesis.

Upon analysis of the results, an alternative hypothesis can be rejected or supported, but it can never be proven to be correct. We must avoid any reference to results proving a theory as this implies 100% certainty, and there is always a chance that evidence may exist which could refute a theory.

How to Write a Hypothesis

  • Identify variables . The researcher manipulates the independent variable and the dependent variable is the measured outcome.
  • Operationalized the variables being investigated . Operationalization of a hypothesis refers to the process of making the variables physically measurable or testable, e.g. if you are about to study aggression, you might count the number of punches given by participants.
  • Decide on a direction for your prediction . If there is evidence in the literature to support a specific effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable, write a directional (one-tailed) hypothesis. If there are limited or ambiguous findings in the literature regarding the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable, write a non-directional (two-tailed) hypothesis.
  • Make it Testable : Ensure your hypothesis can be tested through experimentation or observation. It should be possible to prove it false (principle of falsifiability).
  • Clear & concise language . A strong hypothesis is concise (typically one to two sentences long), and formulated using clear and straightforward language, ensuring it’s easily understood and testable.

Consider a hypothesis many teachers might subscribe to: students work better on Monday morning than on Friday afternoon (IV=Day, DV= Standard of work).

Now, if we decide to study this by giving the same group of students a lesson on a Monday morning and a Friday afternoon and then measuring their immediate recall of the material covered in each session, we would end up with the following:

  • The alternative hypothesis states that students will recall significantly more information on a Monday morning than on a Friday afternoon.
  • The null hypothesis states that there will be no significant difference in the amount recalled on a Monday morning compared to a Friday afternoon. Any difference will be due to chance or confounding factors.

More Examples

  • Memory : Participants exposed to classical music during study sessions will recall more items from a list than those who studied in silence.
  • Social Psychology : Individuals who frequently engage in social media use will report higher levels of perceived social isolation compared to those who use it infrequently.
  • Developmental Psychology : Children who engage in regular imaginative play have better problem-solving skills than those who don’t.
  • Clinical Psychology : Cognitive-behavioral therapy will be more effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety over a 6-month period compared to traditional talk therapy.
  • Cognitive Psychology : Individuals who multitask between various electronic devices will have shorter attention spans on focused tasks than those who single-task.
  • Health Psychology : Patients who practice mindfulness meditation will experience lower levels of chronic pain compared to those who don’t meditate.
  • Organizational Psychology : Employees in open-plan offices will report higher levels of stress than those in private offices.
  • Behavioral Psychology : Rats rewarded with food after pressing a lever will press it more frequently than rats who receive no reward.

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GrammarLord

A Comprehensive Analysis of The Plural Forms of Hypothesis

“Hypothesis” is often a word that sends shivers down the spines of students and makes professors’ eyes light up. Maybe because it has a fancy Greek root (“hypo” = under, “thesis” = placing). And the plural is not as straightforward as adding an “s” at the end.

No, no, no. We’re dealing with a word that loves to keep things interesting. Gladly, this article is about to crack this nut open like a science experiment.

READ ALSO:  Analyzing The Plural of Analysis; A Comprehensive Guide

  • 0.1 Now, here’s the deal
  • 0.2 You need to understand this
  • 0.3 Now, here’s the thing
  • 0.4 A closer look at the verdict
  • 0.5 Now, let’s get creative with some examples
  • 1 Final Thoughts

Now, here’s the deal

The usual suspect for the plural of “hypothesis” is “hypotheses”. Yes, just add that “-es” ending and you’re good to go. Most dictionaries will give you this as the go-to plural form, and it’s perfectly acceptable in most situations.

You can confidently say things like, “The researchers tested several hypotheses” or “My cat has a million hypotheses about where his missing yarn ball went.”

You need to understand this

Just like a good scientific study, we gotta consider alternative explanations. See, “hypothesis” comes from Greek, and in Greek, there’s this whole other way of making plurals for words ending in “-sis.”

It involves adding “-ses” instead of “-es.” Some folks, especially those with a deep love for the classics, prefer to stick to this Greek-y plural form.

So, you might encounter “hypotheseses” in academic writing or among language enthusiasts.

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Now, here’s the thing

While “hypotheseses” is technically correct, it’s not exactly common in everyday speech. It can sound a bit stuffy like you’re trying to show off your fancy vocabulary.

Unless you’re writing a dissertation on ancient Greek grammar, “hypotheses” is the safer bet. But,  if you’re feeling fly and want to impress your professor with your linguistic prowess, go for it!

Just be prepared for some raised eyebrows and maybe even a chuckle or two.

A closer look at the verdict

Ultimately, the choice is yours, my friend.

Whether you stick to the classic “hypotheses” or take a walk on the wild side with “hypotheseses,” just remember: the important thing is to understand the concept behind the pluralization and to use it with confidence.

Now, let’s get creative with some examples

How can we use the plural of hypothesis in a sentence without getting some raised eyebrow?

READ ALSO:  Exploring The Differences Between Heros and Heroes

Here are a few examples :

“The scientist’s mind buzzed with a swarm of hypotheses, each vying for dominance in the petri dish of her imagination.” “The artist stared at the blank canvas, her brush poised like a question mark, ready to give birth to a constellation of hypotheses.”

Did you see how the plural form adds a touch of intrigue, a hint of possibility, to the scene? It’s like sprinkling magic dust on your writing, transforming it from a dull monologue to a vibrant, multi-faceted dialogue.

Final Thoughts

Now you have it! The plural of “hypothesis” laid bare. It is time to go forth and spread your newfound knowledge, one hypothesis (or maybe even hypotheseses) at a time!

The goal is to clearly reach out to your audience without flooding your writing or sentences with grammatical errors.

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COMMENTS

  1. The Plural of Hypothesis

    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."

  2. Hypothesis Definition & Meaning

    hypothesis: [noun] an assumption or concession made for the sake of argument. an interpretation of a practical situation or condition taken as the ground for action.

  3. Plural of Hypothesis: Rules and Examples

    The plural form of hypothesis is 'hypotheses'. 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.\". 'Hypothesis' is the singular form of the word, while 'hypotheses' is the plural form.

  4. What's the Plural of 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 ...

  5. What's the plural of hypothesis?

    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 ...

  6. What is the Plural of Hypothesis?

    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.".

  7. Hypotheses vs Hypothesis: Deciding Between Similar Terms

    The answer is that both words are correct, but they have different meanings. Hypotheses is the plural form of hypothesis. A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or prediction for a phenomenon that can be tested through experimentation or observation. Hypotheses, on the other hand, refers to multiple hypotheses.

  8. What is the Plural of Hypothesis?

    The plural form (meaning multiples) of the base word "hypothesis" is "hypotheses." Nouns can identify places, people, animals, and other things. They are the basic materials required to construct sentences. There are different types of nouns, including proper nouns, common nouns, compound nouns, collective nouns, abstract nouns, and countable ...

  9. hypothesis

    hypothesis (plural hypotheses) ( sciences) Used loosely, a tentative conjecture explaining an observation, phenomenon or scientific problem that can be tested by further observation, investigation and/or experimentation. As a scientific term of art, see the attached quotation. Compare to theory, and quotation given there.

  10. HYPOTHESIS

    HYPOTHESIS meaning: 1. an idea or explanation for something that is based on known facts but has not yet been proved…. Learn more.

  11. Hypothesis

    The hypothesis of Andreas Cellarius, showing the planetary motions in eccentric and epicyclical orbits. A hypothesis (pl.: hypotheses) is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon.For a hypothesis to be a scientific hypothesis, the scientific method requires that one can test it. Scientists generally base scientific hypotheses on previous observations that cannot satisfactorily be explained with ...

  12. What is the plural of hypothesis?

    The plural form of hypothesis is hypotheses . Find more words! The problem with existing adaptationist hypotheses of human reproductive behavior is twofold. The study focuses on math and language arts, and the results strongly support these hypotheses.

  13. hypothesis noun

    None of the hypotheses can be rejected at this stage. Scientists have proposed a bold hypothesis. She used this data to test her hypothesis; The hypothesis predicts that children will perform better on task A than on task B. The results confirmed his hypothesis on the use of modal verbs. These observations appear to support our working hypothesis.

  14. Whats the Plural of Hypothesis: Understanding Grammatical Number

    The word "hypotheses" is the plural form of "hypothesis." "Hypothesis" and "hypotheses" are used to propose explanations for phenomena, with usage depending on the number. The origin of "hypothesis" traces back to Greek, affecting its pluralization in English. In the most straightforward terms, the plural of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses."

  15. Is hypothesis plural?

    The plural singular plural singular plural plural singular singular plural of hypothesis is hypotheses. How to say hypothesis: How to pronounce hypothesis. How to say hypotheses: How to pronounce hypotheses. Cite This Source. Not sure why hypothesis is both singular plural both both plural plural singular singular? Contact Us! We'll explain.

  16. What Is a Hypothesis? The Scientific Method

    A hypothesis (plural hypotheses) is a proposed explanation for an observation. The definition depends on the subject. In science, a hypothesis is part of the scientific method. It is a prediction or explanation that is tested by an experiment. Observations and experiments may disprove a scientific hypothesis, but can never entirely prove one.

  17. What Is The Plural Of Hypothesis?

    The plural form of "hypothesis" is "hypotheses." This transformation follows a common pattern in English where nouns of Greek origin ending in "-is" change to "-es" in the plural. Understanding Hypothesis Definition of Hypothesis A hypothesis is a tentative assumption or proposition made to draw out and test its logical or ...

  18. hypothesis noun

    1 [countable] an idea or explanation of something that is based on a few known facts but that has not yet been proved to be true or correct synonym theory to formulate/confirm a hypothesis a hypothesis about the function of dreams There is little evidence to support these hypotheses. Topic Collocations Scientific Research theory. formulate/advance a theory/hypothesis

  19. Hypothesis Definition & Meaning

    Hypothesis definition: An unproved theory, proposition, supposition, etc. tentatively accepted to explain certain facts or (working hypothesis) to provide a basis for further investigation, argument, etc. ... Plural: hypotheses. Origin of Hypothesis Recorded ...

  20. Plural of hypothesis

    The plural of hypothesis is hypotheses. The noun hypothesis adheres to the standard rules for forming the plurals of nouns in English where nouns ending -IS become plural by changing the IS to ES. The answer is: 👍. Helpful ( 0)

  21. HYPOTHESIS

    HYPOTHESIS definition: 1. an idea or explanation for something that is based on known facts but has not yet been proved…. Learn more.

  22. Research Hypothesis In Psychology: Types, & Examples

    A research hypothesis, in its plural form "hypotheses," is a specific, testable prediction about the anticipated results of a study, established at its outset. It is a key component of the scientific method. Hypotheses connect theory to data and guide the research process towards expanding scientific understanding.

  23. A Comprehensive Analysis of The Plural Forms of Hypothesis

    The plural of "hypothesis" laid bare. It is time to go forth and spread your newfound knowledge, one hypothesis (or maybe even hypotheseses) at a time! The goal is to clearly reach out to your audience without flooding your writing or sentences with grammatical errors.