Thesis

Definition

Thesis refers to a statement or theory put forward and supported by arguments, especially one that is researched and presented as a requirement for an academic degree.

Parts of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

American English

IPA Pronunciation: /ˈθiːsɪs/
Respelling: THEE-sis (with "THEE" as in "thee" and "sis" as in "sister")

British English

IPA Pronunciation: /ˈθiːsɪs/
Respelling: THEE-sis (similar to American English, with "THEE" as in "thee" and "sis" like in "sister")

In both dialects, "thesis" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "THEE," which is pronounced with a long "ee" sound, as in "thee." The second syllable, "sis," is pronounced similarly to the word "sister." The pronunciation of "thesis" is consistent between American and British English.

Etymology

The term "thesis" originates from the Latin "thesis," which is borrowed from Ancient Greek θέσις (thésis) meaning "a proposition, subject, deposit". Its primary sense in English was related to a setting down or placing, which has evolved to its modern usage related to an intellectual proposition.

Derivatives

Antithesis
Synthesis
Prosthesis
Thesis statement
Methylthiouracil (a compound derived from "thio-" and "urea")

Synonyms

Proposition
Dissertation
Assertion

Antonyms

None

Usage

"Thesis" is commonly used in academic contexts to denote a long piece of writing or research that a student conducts to earn a degree. It can also be applied more broadly to signify any primary statement or main idea in an argument or work.

Related Terms

Hypothesis
Postulate
Premise

Detailed Definition

Noun

Academic Composition: A long piece of writing on a particular subject, especially one written for a university degree or diploma.
Example: Her thesis was on the relationship between quantum mechanics and general relativity.

Central Argument or Point: A statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved.
Example: His main thesis was that only through continuous and rapid innovation can high-tech companies sustain strategic advantages.