Hypothèse

Hypothèse is a proposition that explains a phenomenon and can be tested through observation and experimentation. In scientific and scholarly work, it is a tentative statement that makes an assertive claim about a relationship, effect, or outcome that is testable and falsifiable. A hypothesis is not a final conclusion; it is a working explanation that guides inquiry and experimentation.

In practice, hypotheses are formulated to be tested. They should be specific and operationalizable, so that variables can be measured and methods defined. A key feature is falsifiability: there must be a possible outcome that would contradict the hypothesis if it is false. Researchers then collect data, analyze results, and decide whether the evidence supports or challenges the proposed statement.

Common forms include the null hypothesis (H0), which posits no effect or relationship, and the alternative hypothesis (H1 or Ha), which asserts some effect or association. For example, "If a plant receives more sunlight, then its growth increases" can be tested by comparing growth under different light conditions.

Hypotheses are central to the scientific method, forming the basis of experimental design, statistical testing, and interpretation of findings. They differ from theories in that hypotheses are specific, testable propositions, whereas theories are broader, well-supported explanations. In statistics, hypothesis testing involves calculating probabilities to determine whether observed data would be unlikely under the null hypothesis.

Etymology-wise, the term hypthèse derives from French hypothèse, from Greek hypo- 'under' and thesis 'placing' or 'position,' reflecting the idea of placing a tentative explanation under scrutiny.