Assumption

How it is used

Researchers make, rely on, test or challenge assumptions. In statistics, tests have assumptions, such as normal distribution, that are checked before the analysis. The verb is assume.

Example sentences

1. The model rests on the assumption that all learners have equal access to the internet.

2. We checked the assumptions of normality and homogeneity of variance before running the ANOVA.

Common collocations

• make an assumption
• underlying assumption
• challenge an assumption
• based on the assumption that
• test assumptions

Related terms

• hypothesisA testable statement that predicts a relationship or outcome, which a study then supports or fails to support with evidence.
• conceptA general idea or principle, especially one that is defined and used in a particular theory or field of study.
• theoretical frameworkThe theory or set of connected theories that a study uses to explain its problem, shape its questions and interpret its findings.
• validityThe extent to which a study or instrument really measures what it claims to measure and supports the conclusions drawn from it.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

• assumption · Statistics
• assumption · Project Management

More terms: Academic Vocabulary

• indicate
• e.g.
• i.e.
• approach
• implication
• demonstrate
• furthermore
• phenomenon
• comprise
• respectively
• however
• therefore