hypothetical
imagined / theoretical / supposed / proposition
AdjectiveNoun
pl: hypotheticals
This term describes a scenario constructed for the purpose of exploration or logical testing rather than a description of reality. It carries a neutral, intellectual tone, often used in academic, legal, or scientific discourse to isolate variables or test a theory without the constraints of actual evidence. When used as a noun, the word functions as a shorthand for a hypothetical example or proposition. In this capacity, it is a countable noun, allowing for the discussion of multiple different hypotheticals within a single argument or debate.
Meanings
Adjective
[~ situation][~ question]
Based on or serving as a hypothesis; imagined or suggested as a possibility rather than based on known facts.
"Let us consider a hypothetical situation where the laws of gravity are reversed."