υπόθεση
Lemma: υπόθεση
Translation: hypothesis; assumption; case; matter; affair; supposition (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ὑπόθεσις (hypothesis), composed of ὑπό (hypo-, 'under') + θέσις (thesis, 'placing'). The word literally means 'a placing under' or 'foundation'. This is the direct source of English 'hypothesis'. The Greek word has maintained its core meaning of an underlying assumption or proposition, while also developing extended meanings like 'case' (legal) and 'matter' (general affair). The connection to English 'hypothesis' makes this word particularly memorable for English speakers, though the Greek usage is broader.
Example Usage
Αυτή είναι μια ενδιαφέρουσα υπόθεση για έρευνα.
This is an interesting hypothesis for research.
Η αστυνομία ερευνά την υπόθεση της κλοπής.
The police are investigating the theft case.
Ας κάνουμε την υπόθεση ότι έχεις δίκιο.
Let's make the assumption that you are right.
Είναι μια προσωπική υπόθεση.
It's a personal matter.
Η υπόθεσή μου είναι ότι θα βρέξει αύριο.
My hypothesis is that it will rain tomorrow.
Η υπόθεση πήγε στο δικαστήριο.
The case went to court.
Αυτή είναι μια σοβαρή υπόθεση.
This is a serious matter.
Mnemonics
- Think 'hypothesis' - same word, broader meaning in Greek
- Hypo (under) + thesis (placing) = placing an idea underneath as foundation
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in academic, legal, and everyday contexts. In legal settings, often refers to a court case. In academic contexts, maintains the scientific meaning of hypothesis. In everyday speech, can refer to any matter or situation that needs attention.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: υπόθεση means hypothesis/case while υπόσχεση means promise - they look similar but have completely different meanings
Notes: Both are feminine nouns with similar spelling patterns, making them easy to confuse for beginners
Mnemonic: υπόθεση has 'θ' for 'theory', υπόσχεση has 'σχ' for 'swear' (promise)