What does guess mean?
Guess is a widely used word for forming a judgment when certainty is unavailable. As a verb, it can describe making a rough estimate, proposing an answer, reaching a tentative conclusion, or predicting what will happen. In “I guess,” the word functions as a marker of uncertainty and may indicate either genuine doubt or a reluctance to state something firmly. As a noun, a guess is the resulting estimate, opinion, or prediction. Guesses range from idle speculation to informed deductions based on clues or experience, so the word does not necessarily imply carelessness. The expression “take a guess” asks another person for an opinion, while “make a guess” refers more neutrally to forming one. Guess is especially useful when discussing incomplete information: it distinguishes a reasonable provisional conclusion from a fact that has been established.
To form a tentative opinion, estimate, answer, or prediction without complete information or certainty.
"I can only guess how many people will attend."
The phrase “I guess” commonly marks uncertainty and can also sound mildly hesitant or noncommittal.
An estimate, tentative opinion, or prediction made without certainty.
"Her guess about the cause of the delay proved correct."
The plural is formed by adding the ending -es.
"Several of their guesses turned out to be correct."
A good guess is not merely a random shot; it is often a careful inference waiting for more evidence.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of guess
The word entered Middle English as guessen, borrowing from Anglo-French and Old French forms including guesser, a verb meaning “to guess,” and gues, a noun meaning “a guess.” The ultimate origin of the Old French word is uncertain, so a more precise source should not be asserted. English subsequently developed both the familiar verb and the noun meaning a tentative opinion or estimate.
Related word forms
How guess is actually used
The word is neutral in register and common in both formal and informal English. Phrases such as “I guess” often express uncertainty and may sound conversational or noncommittal, while “guess what?” is especially informal.
Easily confused with guess
Guess is a verb and noun meaning a tentative opinion or estimate, whereas a guest is a person invited to visit or attend an event.