theory
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.
Examples
3 of 5I 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.
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.
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.
Synonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
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.
Quick Quiz
Everything sounds great in _______, but we need to see how the customers react to the actual product.
Correct!
The correct answer is: theory
Examples
I have a theory that my neighbor only mows his lawn when he sees me relaxing in the garden.
everydayI have a personal explanation that my neighbor mows his lawn specifically when I am relaxing.
The researchers proposed a new theory to account for the sudden shift in climate patterns.
formalThe researchers suggested a formal explanation for the abrupt change in climate.
My theory is he didn't show up because he's still mad about yesterday.
informalMy guess is that his absence is due to him being angry about yesterday.
Einstein's general theory of relativity revolutionized our understanding of space and time.
academicEinstein's scientific framework for relativity changed how we perceive space and time.
In theory, the new software should reduce processing time by half, though we need to run more tests.
businessAccording to the planned design, the software should be faster, but it is not yet proven.
Synonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
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.
Often Confused With
A hypothesis is a tentative starting point for investigation, while a theory is a comprehensive, often well-tested explanation.
Usage Notes
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'.
Common Mistakes
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.
Memory Tip
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.
Word Origin
From Late Latin 'theoria', originating from the Greek 'theōria', meaning 'contemplation, speculation, or a looking at'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
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).
Quick Quiz
Everything sounds great in _______, but we need to see how the customers react to the actual product.
Correct!
The correct answer is: theory
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