postulate
To suggest or assume something as a basis for reasoning
Examples
In a meeting
“Let's postulate that conversion rates remain constant and model from there”
Over coffee
“Scientists postulate that the universe is still expanding”
Why this word
assume
Postulate means proposing something as a basis for reasoning without proof, typically in formal logic or theory, while assume is informal acceptance without evidence
suggest
Postulate involves putting forth a foundational claim for argument or theory, while suggest merely offers a possibility without claiming necessity
propose
Postulate establishes an axiom or unproven premise as a starting point, while propose simply puts forward an idea for consideration
Usage tip
Use when proposing a foundational assumption to build further analysis upon
Etymology
Latin 'postulare' — to demand or request
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Related words
assumption
Something accepted as true without proof
rationale
The reasoning or logic behind a decision
infer
To deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than explicit statements
inference
A conclusion reached based on evidence and reasoning
interrogate
To examine data or assumptions critically and systematically
deduce
To reach a conclusion through logical reasoning