Definition
Science fiction explores imagined futures, alternate realities, or advanced technology and asks "what if" about society, science, and human nature. It often extrapolates from known science or social trends.
Example
A colony ship losing contact with Earth and developing new political systems is science fiction.
Related terms
Common mistakes
- Requiring every detail to be scientifically accurate; SF often uses speculation as story engine.
- Treating science fiction and fantasy as mutually exclusive when many works blend both.