Definition

Relating to a situation or idea that is based on a guess or theory rather than something real or certain.

Example

In a hypothetical scenario, we can explore what might happen if we changed the rules.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about a hypothetical situation where we won the lottery?

Yeah, I dream about that all the time!

It would be fun to travel the world with that kind of money, right?

Absolutely! But it's still just a hypothetical idea for now.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypothetical is formed from "hypo-" (meaning under or less than) and "tithenai" (Greek for to place or put). The word refers to something that is placed under consideration or assumed for the sake of argument.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'placed under' consideration ('hypo-') — that's why hypothetical refers to an assumption or a theory.

Visually Confused Words