speculate
word
Definition
To guess or form ideas about something without having all the facts. It can also mean to buy and sell in financial markets hoping to make a profit from price changes.
Usage & Nuances
"Speculate" is formal and often used in news, finance, and academic contexts. Common with "about/on" (e.g. "speculate about the future"). In finance, it has a more specific meaning related to risky investments. Don't confuse with "assume" (acts as if it is true) or "guess" (less formal).
Example Sentences
Some investors speculate in the stock market to make quick profits.
basic
It's useless to speculate when we don't have any facts.
natural
Analysts love to speculate on what the government might do next.
natural
If you only speculate and never act, nothing will change.
natural
People speculate about the outcome of the game.
basic
She likes to speculate about other people's secrets.
basic