Meaning & Definition of word "Speculate"

Speculate

/ˈspɛk.jə.leɪt/

1. to form a theory or conjecture about a subject without firm evidence.
- Example: She began to speculate about the reasons for his sudden departure.
2. to invest in stocks, property, or other ventures in the hope of gain but with the risk of loss.
- Example: Many people speculate in the real estate market, hoping to turn a profit.
3. to engage in a risky financial transaction with the hope of significant return.
- Example: He decided to speculate on the stock exchange, believing the technology sector would boom.
4. to consider a question, subject, or idea in a vague or uncertain manner.
- Example: The scientist speculated on the implications of the new discovery.

From Latin 'speculari' which means 'to look at' or 'to observe'.

speculate wildly:

to make unfounded or extravagant guesses.

speculate on the future:

to theorize about upcoming events or outcomes.

speculation market:

a marketplace for trading based on speculation.

speculation:

the action of forming a theory or conjecture without firm evidence.

speculator:

a person who forms theories or guesses or engages in risky financial investments.

Meaning: To take a wild guess.

Example Sentence: She just speculated and got it completely wrong.

Meaning: To throw something out there as a possibility.

Example Sentence: He speculated that they might be getting together without any evidence.