hypothetical
UK: /ˌhaɪ.pəˈθet.ɪ.kəl/ | US: /ˌhaɪ.pəˈθet̬.ɪ.kəl/
adj. based on or involving a suggested idea or theory rather than actual evidence
adj. existing only as an idea or concept; not real or tangible
The word "hypothetical" traces back to Greek roots. The prefix "hypo-" means "under" or "below," while "thet" derives from "tithenai," meaning "to place." Combined with the suffix "-ical," it forms an adjective meaning "placed under" or "assumed as a basis for reasoning." The term evolved in Late Latin as "hypotheticus" and entered English in the 16th century, retaining its sense of something proposed for the sake of argument or theory.
The scientist presented a hypothetical scenario to test the theory.
In a hypothetical situation where resources are unlimited, what would you do?
The debate focused on hypothetical outcomes rather than proven facts.
Her argument relied heavily on hypothetical examples.
The teacher asked students to consider hypothetical solutions to the problem.