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postulate

to assume / to hypothesize / axiom / premise

Transitive VerbNoun

pl: postulatespast: postulatedpp: postulateding: postulating

This term carries a strong connotation of formal logic and scientific inquiry. It describes the act of establishing a starting point for an argument that is accepted without proof, serving as the foundation upon which further deductions are built. In academic or mathematical contexts, it differs from a hypothesis in that a postulate is often treated as a given truth to enable the progression of a theory, whereas a hypothesis is a tentative guess to be tested.

Meanings

Transitive Verb

[~ that][~ something]

To suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of something as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or belief.

"The physicists postulate that the universe is expanding at an accelerating rate."

Noun

A thing suggested or assumed as true as the basis for reasoning, discussion, or belief.

"The entire theory is based on the postulate that all humans seek maximum utility."

Related Words

Last Updated: June 11, 2026•Report an Error