How is a hypothesis best defined?

A hypothesis is best defined as a tentative explanation. This definition highlights that a hypothesis is a starting point for investigation, formulated based on observations or preliminary evidence. It serves as a proposed answer to a specific question or a guide for further experiments and observations.

In scientific practice, a hypothesis is not considered a proven theory or a definitive law, as those concepts require substantial evidence and repeated testing to establish their validity in the scientific community. Additionally, a hypothesis is fundamentally different from a complex principle, as it is meant to be tested and potentially disproved or modified based on new data. Thus, the essence of a hypothesis lies in its provisional nature, inviting further investigation and experimentation.