C1 noun Neutral

theory

/ˈθɪəri/

A formal set of ideas or principles intended to explain a specific phenomenon or a group of facts. In scientific contexts, it represents a well-substantiated explanation supported by evidence, while in general usage, it often refers to a plausible but unproven conjecture.

Ejemplos

3 de 5
1

I have a theory that my neighbor only mows his lawn when he sees me relaxing in the garden.

I have a personal explanation that my neighbor mows his lawn specifically when I am relaxing.

2

The researchers proposed a new theory to account for the sudden shift in climate patterns.

The researchers suggested a formal explanation for the abrupt change in climate.

3

My theory is he didn't show up because he's still mad about yesterday.

My guess is that his absence is due to him being angry about yesterday.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivo
theory
Verb
theorize
Adverbio
theoretically
Adjetivo
theoretical
Relacionado
theorist
💡

Truco para recordar

Think of a 'Theater' (from the same Greek root 'thea', meaning a view). A 'theory' is a specific 'way of viewing' or 'looking at' how things work.

Quiz rápido

Everything sounds great in _______, but we need to see how the customers react to the actual product.

¡Correcto!

La respuesta correcta es: theory

Ejemplos

1

I have a theory that my neighbor only mows his lawn when he sees me relaxing in the garden.

everyday

I have a personal explanation that my neighbor mows his lawn specifically when I am relaxing.

2

The researchers proposed a new theory to account for the sudden shift in climate patterns.

formal

The researchers suggested a formal explanation for the abrupt change in climate.

3

My theory is he didn't show up because he's still mad about yesterday.

informal

My guess is that his absence is due to him being angry about yesterday.

4

Einstein's general theory of relativity revolutionized our understanding of space and time.

academic

Einstein's scientific framework for relativity changed how we perceive space and time.

5

In theory, the new software should reduce processing time by half, though we need to run more tests.

business

According to the planned design, the software should be faster, but it is not yet proven.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivo
theory
Verb
theorize
Adverbio
theoretically
Adjetivo
theoretical
Relacionado
theorist

Colocaciones comunes

conspiracy theory A belief that a secret group is responsible for an event.
economic theory The principles and models governing the economy.
develop a theory To create or formulate a new set of explanatory ideas.
string theory A specific theoretical framework in particle physics.
prove a theory To provide enough evidence to demonstrate that an explanation is correct.

Frases Comunes

in theory

Used to describe what is supposed to happen, often implying it might not happen in reality.

pet theory

A favorite idea or explanation that someone likes to promote.

put into practice

The act of applying a theory to real-life situations.

Se confunde a menudo con

theory vs hypothesis

A hypothesis is a tentative starting point for investigation, while a theory is a comprehensive, often well-tested explanation.

📝

Notas de uso

Use 'theory' carefully in scientific writing; it implies a high level of evidence and systematic reasoning. In casual conversation, 'theory' is often synonymous with 'hunch' or 'guess'.

⚠️

Errores comunes

Learners often say 'in the theory' when they mean 'in theory'. Also, avoid using 'theory' to describe a simple observation; it usually requires a set of underlying principles.

💡

Truco para recordar

Think of a 'Theater' (from the same Greek root 'thea', meaning a view). A 'theory' is a specific 'way of viewing' or 'looking at' how things work.

📖

Origen de la palabra

From Late Latin 'theoria', originating from the Greek 'theōria', meaning 'contemplation, speculation, or a looking at'.

Patrones gramaticales

Countable noun: theories Often followed by 'of' + noun (e.g., theory of evolution) Often followed by a 'that' clause (e.g., the theory that the earth is round)
🌍

Contexto cultural

In modern English-speaking scientific culture, the phrase 'it's just a theory' is controversial because it confuses the colloquial meaning (guess) with the scientific meaning (rigorous framework).

Quiz rápido

Everything sounds great in _______, but we need to see how the customers react to the actual product.

¡Correcto!

La respuesta correcta es: theory

Palabras relacionadas

buckram

B2

To stiffen a fabric using a coarse cloth called buckram, or metaphorically, to provide a rigid, formal, or artificial structure to something. It describes the process of making an object or an idea appear more solid and less flexible than it naturally is.

buckskin

B2

Describes items made from the soft, yellowish-tan leather of a male deer or sheep, or refers to the specific pale yellowish-brown color of this leather. It is frequently used in the context of historical clothing, outdoor gear, and horse coat colors.

buckteeth

B2

Upper front teeth that protrude significantly outward over the lower lip, often due to jaw alignment or dental conditions. This physical trait is commonly associated with specific facial structures and is frequently addressed through orthodontic treatment.

buddha

B2

Used as a modifier to describe something that possesses qualities of enlightenment, supreme peace, or detached wisdom. It often refers to a state of being calm and unbothered by external chaos or emotional distress.

buddhism

B2

Buddhism is a major world religion and philosophical system founded in India over 2,500 years ago by Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha. It focuses on personal spiritual development, the attainment of deep insight into the true nature of life, and the elimination of suffering through the path to enlightenment.

buddhist

B2

A Buddhist is a person who follows the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha. The term also functions as an adjective to describe things, practices, or art related to the religion and philosophy of Buddhism.

buddy

B2

To pair or partner someone with another person, typically to provide support, guidance, or safety in a professional or educational environment. As a verb, it often implies a formal or semi-formal arrangement where a more experienced person assists a newcomer.

budge

B2

To move slightly or to change a decision, opinion, or position. It is most frequently used in negative constructions to indicate that someone is being stubborn or that an object is physically stuck.

budgerigar

B2

A small, long-tailed, seed-eating parrot that is native to Australia and often kept as a pet. It is typically green and yellow with black markings in the wild, though domestic varieties come in many colors.

budgetary

B2

Relating to or concerned with a plan for spending money or a budget. It is frequently used to describe financial limits, allocations, or the process of managing available funds within an organization or government.

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