speculative fiction
nounUK /ˈspɛkjʊlətɪv ˈfɪkʃən/
US /ˈspɛkjəleɪtɪv ˈfɪkʃən/
Speculative fiction is a kind of story that imagines things that are not real, like magic, aliens, or the future.
The library has a whole shelf of speculative fiction, from space adventures to stories about dragons.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. Stories that explore 'what if' questions about society, technology, or human nature.
Many speculative fiction novels ask what would happen if everyone could read minds.
3. A broad category that includes science fiction, fantasy, horror, and alternate history.
Her class on speculative fiction covered everything from robots to ghosts.
4. Writing that takes place in invented worlds or futures rather than the everyday present.
He prefers speculative fiction because it lets his imagination run wild.