hypothesis
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hypothesis
An unproven scientific assumption or supposition that serves as the basis for an investigation or experiment. It must be confirmed or disproven by facts.
Die Forscher stellten die Hypothese auf, dass das neue Medikament wirksamer ist als das alte.
The researchers put forward the hypothesis that the new medication is more effective than the old one.
In a scientific context, there are fixed verbs for dealing with hypotheses. You can 'eine Hypothese aufstellen' (put forward a hypothesis), 'überprüfen' (test/check), 'bestätigen' (confirm), or 'widerlegen' (disprove) a hypothesis.
Das Experiment soll unsere Hypothese bestätigen.
The experiment is meant to confirm our hypothesis.
A hypothesis is often formulated in a subordinate clause with 'dass' (that). This pattern follows directly after the noun: 'die Hypothese, dass ...' (the hypothesis that ...).
Die Wissenschaftlerin vertritt die Hypothese, dass Schlaf die Gedächtnisleistung verbessert.
The scientist supports the hypothesis that sleep improves memory performance.
'Hypothese' (hypothesis) is a technical term from science and research. In everyday language, people would more likely use words like 'Vermutung' (supposition/guess) or 'Annahme' (assumption), but in an academic context 'Hypothese' is precise and common.
Für seine Doktorarbeit muss er eine klare Hypothese formulieren.
For his doctoral thesis, he has to formulate a clear hypothesis.
theory
Both words can refer to scientific explanations that have not yet been definitively established. “Eine Hypothese” is a single, specifically testable assumption for an investigation or experiment. “Eine Theorie” is a more comprehensive and more strongly supported explanatory system. Use “Hypothese” for the idea being tested and “Theorie” for the larger model.
Die Hypothese lautet, dass mehr Licht das Wachstum dieser Pflanzen beschleunigt.
The hypothesis is that more light will accelerate the growth of these plants.
Die Theorie erklärt mit mehreren belegten Zusammenhängen, wie sich die Krankheit verbreitet.
The theory explains how the disease spreads through several well-supported connections.
