formuler une hypothèse
to formulate a hypothesis
Use this to suggest a logical explanation for a mystery or a problem you're solving.
In 15 Seconds
- To make an educated guess based on logic.
- Used in professional, academic, or analytical everyday contexts.
- Sounds intelligent and thoughtful without being overly stiff.
Meaning
It is a fancy way of saying you are making an educated guess or proposing a theory to explain something. You use it when you are looking at facts and trying to find a logical reason for what is happening.
Key Examples
3 of 6In a business meeting
Je me permets de formuler une hypothèse sur la baisse du trafic.
Allow me to formulate a hypothesis regarding the drop in traffic.
Troubleshooting a computer
On peut formuler une hypothèse : le câble est peut-être débranché.
We can formulate a hypothesis: the cable might be unplugged.
Texting a friend about a late arrival
Hypothèse : il a encore raté son train !
Hypothesis: he missed his train again!
Cultural Background
This expression reflects the French 'esprit cartésien' (Cartesian spirit), which prioritizes logic and methodical reasoning. It is deeply rooted in the French educational system, where students are taught to structure every argument as a scientific inquiry.
The 'Si' Clause Secret
When you use this phrase, follow it with a 'si' (if) clause to sound extra logical. For example: 'Je formule l'hypothèse que si on change la batterie, ça marchera.'
Don't Overuse It
Using this for every single guess can make you sound like a robot. Save it for when you actually want to sound smart or analytical.
In 15 Seconds
- To make an educated guess based on logic.
- Used in professional, academic, or analytical everyday contexts.
- Sounds intelligent and thoughtful without being overly stiff.
What It Means
This phrase is about making an educated guess. It is more than just a random thought. You are looking at clues and proposing a reason. Think of it as being a mini-detective. You use logic to explain something that isn't clear yet.
How To Use It
Pair it with the verb pouvoir or devoir. You might say, "Je peux formuler une hypothèse." It often leads into a sentence starting with que. You will likely use the conditional mood here. It makes you sound thoughtful and analytical. It is a great way to introduce an idea without being too bossy.
When To Use It
Use it in a professional meeting to sound sharp. Use it with friends when discussing a juicy mystery. It is perfect for troubleshooting a broken computer or appliance. It works well when you want to be polite. It suggests you aren't 100% sure but have an idea. You will sound like a pro during a brainstorm.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid it for things that are obvious or proven. Don't use it if you are angry and accusing someone. It is too clinical for a heated emotional argument. If you are just guessing a number, use deviner. Keep this phrase for situations requiring a bit of logic. Don't use it while ordering a croissant!
Cultural Background
The French value "l'esprit cartésien" or Cartesian logic. This means they love structured, logical thinking. This phrase is a staple in French schools. Every student learns to formuler une hypothèse in science class. It has leaked into everyday life as a sign of intelligence. It shows you are thinking before you speak.
Common Variations
You can also say émettre une hypothèse. This is slightly more formal but very common. Faire une supposition is another great alternative. If you are being casual, just say je parie que. Use avancer une idée for a softer approach in a group.
Usage Notes
This phrase is neutral and very versatile. It works in the office or at home, but avoid using it in highly emotional or urgent situations where logic isn't the priority.
The 'Si' Clause Secret
When you use this phrase, follow it with a 'si' (if) clause to sound extra logical. For example: 'Je formule l'hypothèse que si on change la batterie, ça marchera.'
Don't Overuse It
Using this for every single guess can make you sound like a robot. Save it for when you actually want to sound smart or analytical.
The Sherlock Effect
French people love to debate. Using this phrase is like an invitation for others to 'formulate' their own ideas. It’s a great conversation starter!
Examples
6Je me permets de formuler une hypothèse sur la baisse du trafic.
Allow me to formulate a hypothesis regarding the drop in traffic.
A polite way to offer an analytical opinion.
On peut formuler une hypothèse : le câble est peut-être débranché.
We can formulate a hypothesis: the cable might be unplugged.
Using logic to solve a technical issue.
Hypothèse : il a encore raté son train !
Hypothesis: he missed his train again!
Shortened version for quick, informal texting.
Je formule l'hypothèse que le chat complote contre nous.
I am formulating the hypothesis that the cat is plotting against us.
Using formal language for a silly situation creates humor.
Je formule l'hypothèse qu'il est simplement très fatigué.
I'm formulating the hypothesis that he is simply very tired.
A gentle way to speculate about someone's feelings.
Si le gâteau a disparu, je formule l'hypothèse que tu l'as mangé.
If the cake is gone, I formulate the hypothesis that you ate it.
Playful accusation using logical structure.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct verb to complete the logical guess.
Pour expliquer ce retard, je vais ___ une hypothèse.
In French, you 'formulate' a hypothesis just like in English.
Which word logically follows 'formuler une' in a scientific or analytical context?
Le détective doit formuler une ___ pour résoudre l'affaire.
A detective uses hypotheses (logical guesses) to solve cases.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Ways to Guess in French
A gut feeling or bet.
Je parie que...
An educated, logical guess.
Je formule une hypothèse.
Official or academic theory.
Émettre une hypothèse.
When to Formulate a Hypothesis
Office Brainstorm
Explaining sales trends.
Broken Tech
Why the Wi-Fi is down.
Social Mystery
Why a friend is late.
School/Science
Proposing a lab result.
Frequently Asked Questions
11 questionsIt means to propose a logical explanation for something. It is like saying 'I have a theory' in English.
Not at all! You can use it at work, with friends, or when trying to fix something at home.
Yes, but it is often shortened to just Hypothèse : [your idea]. It sounds clever and quick.
Deviner is just 'to guess' (like a number). Formuler une hypothèse implies you have a logical reason for your guess.
It is neutral to formal. It is perfectly fine for a professional setting, but not too stiff for a casual chat.
Usually, you use the indicative or conditional. For example: Je formule l'hypothèse qu'il pleuvra (indicative) or qu'il pleuvrait (conditional).
You can, but formuler or émettre sounds much more natural and sophisticated to a native ear.
Yes, they are almost identical. Émettre is slightly more formal, often used in written reports or news.
You could say C'est juste une supposition or Je dis ça au hasard.
Yes, it is a polite way to guess why someone is upset without being too intrusive. Je formule l'hypothèse qu'il est stressé.
Don't forget the article une. It is always formuler UNE hypothèse, never just formuler hypothèse.
Related Phrases
émettre une hypothèse
to put forward a hypothesis (slightly more formal)
faire une supposition
to make an assumption
avancer une idée
to put forward an idea
tirer une conclusion
to draw a conclusion
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