hypothesis

/haɪˈpɒθəsɪs/ /haɪˈpɒθəsiːz/ noun [C] (plural hypotheses)

Definition

› an idea or explanation for something that may be true but has not yet been completely proved: hypothesis that Evidence supports their hypothesis that a long-term relationship built on trust and obligation between a buyer and a sub-contractor leads to prompt delivery and better cooperation.

→ See also null hypothesis

(Definition of hypothesis noun from the Cambridge Business English Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)