rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryconjecturalBased on guesswork
adjective

conjectural

kuhn-JEK-chur-uhl/kənˈdʒektʃərəl/

Based on guesswork rather than firm evidence.

The vessel reconstructions are conjectural, based on just one small fragment.

A researcher proposes two incompatible reconstructions of a whole vessel from a single small pottery fragment.
Etymology
conLatintogether
+jectLatinthrow
+urLatinaction or result
+alLatinpertaining to

“Throwing together” became an image for assembling facts into an interpretation or inference. Conjectural describes something resting on such a guess rather than certain evidence.

In context

Pictures&More444:37
the whole theory of fraud was purely conjectural there was not a single particle of direct evidence
The D'Arblay Mystery by R. Austin Freeman | Detective Fiction | Audiobook

More examples

  • The budget figures are conjectural because several costs are unknown.
  • Her conjectural account of the city's founding draws on local legends.
  • Until researchers find more evidence, their conclusions remain conjectural.

Forms

conjectural

conjecture noun — A conclusion reached without firm evidence.

conjecturally adverb — Through guesswork rather than firm evidence.

Similar words

speculative
Often emphasizes exploring possibilities rather than drawing unsupported conclusions.
hypothetical
Describes something assumed for discussion, not necessarily a guess.