speculation

[ spek-yuh-ley-shuhn ]

noun

1. the contemplation or consideration of some subject:

   to engage in speculation on humanity's ultimate destiny.

2. a single instance or process of consideration.
3. a conclusion or opinion reached by such contemplation:

   These speculations are impossible to verify.

   Synonyms: hypothesis, theory, view, supposition

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

   a report based on speculation rather than facts.

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

speculation

/ ˌspɛkjʊˈleɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of speculating
2. a supposition, theory, or opinion arrived at through speculating
3. investment involving high risk but also the possibility of high profits

Other Words From

• anti·specu·lation noun adjective
• nonspec·u·lation noun
• over·specu·lation noun
• prespec·u·lation noun
• semi·specu·lation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of speculation¹

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

Example Sentences

Back then, the artist said he conceived of his work as a satirical jab at market speculation, asking the question, “On what basis does an object acquire value in the art system?”

From New York Times

Despite their recent run and speculation about the Spaniard's future, however, Guardiola this week agreed a new one-year deal to extend his stay at Etihad Stadium to 10 years.

From BBC

The New Zealander, who has rejected speculation that there is a break clause after next year's Six Nations in his contract, said he would resign if it was in the interests of Welsh rugby.

From BBC

After months of speculation about his future, their manager Pep Guardiola has decided to extend his stay with the club for at least another year, taking him to summer 2026.

From BBC

He also stressed that “a decision to close down the office permanently is a decision that you will hear about from us directly and shouldn’t be part of media speculation”.

From BBC

Related Words

• belief
• conjecture
• opinion
• thought