speculative
/ˈspɛkjuləˌtɪv/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
Characterized by speculation; based on guessing, unfounded opinions, or extrapolation.
Adjective
Examples
Like The Handmaid's Tale, Oryx and Crake is a speculative fiction, not a science fiction proper.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
Pursued as a gamble, with possible large profits or losses; risky.
Adjective
Examples
Tranquillo Barnetta was the grateful beneficiary of uncertain England defending and poor goalkeeping from Joe Hart as he twice saw speculative free-kicks end in the back of the net in the first half.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “speculative” mean?
Characterized by speculation; based on guessing, unfounded opinions, or extrapolation.
Is “speculative” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.