The meaning of SPECULATIVE is involving, based on, or constituting intellectual speculation; also : theoretical rather than demonstrable. How to use speculative in a sentence.

speculative adjective (DONE FOR PROFIT) Add to word list bought or done in order to make a profit in the future: a speculative venture

1. pertaining to, of the nature of, or characterized by speculation, conjecture, or abstract reasoning. 2. theoretical, rather than practical. 3. given to speculation, as a person or the …

SPECULATIVE meaning: 1 : based on guesses or ideas about what might happen or be true rather than on facts; 2 : tending to think about what might happen or be true tending to speculate

Speculative is used to describe activities which involve buying goods or shares, or buildings and properties, in the hope of being able to sell them again at a higher price and make a profit.

Definition of speculative adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Speculative fiction is an umbrella genre of fiction that encompasses all the subgenres that depart from realism, or strictly imitating everyday reality, instead presenting fantastical, supernatural, …

Dec 14, 2025 · speculative (comparative more speculative, superlative most speculative) Characterized by speculation; based on guessing, unfounded opinions, or extrapolation. …

There are 18 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word speculative, six of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Explore the term 'speculative,' its meanings, origins, and applications across various fields such as literature, philosophy, and finance. Learn about its synonyms, antonyms, and related terms.