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.

Examples

3 of 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.

Word Family

Noun
theory
Verb
theorize
Adverb
theoretically
Adjective
theoretical
Related
theorist
💡

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

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.

Word Family

Noun
theory
Verb
theorize
Adverb
theoretically
Adjective
theoretical
Related
theorist

Common Collocations

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.

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

theory vs hypothesis

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

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)
🌍

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

Related Words

anteruptism

C1

Describing the specific state, conditions, or period occurring immediately before a sudden rupture, eruption, or systemic failure. It is used to characterize the buildup of tension and the identifiable indicators that precede a significant disruption.

synputity

C1

Synputity refers to the state or quality of synthesized inputs being perfectly integrated and pure, resulting in a seamless and uncorrupted whole. It is often used in technical or philosophical contexts to describe the ideal blending of diverse data or elements into a single, cohesive entity.

extramercent

C1

A noun referring to a secondary or non-standard commercial transaction, typically one that occurs outside of regulated primary markets. In a test-prep context, it describes an ancillary payment or exchange used to facilitate trade in niche or informal economic sectors.

ultrasignless

C1

Describes something that is completely devoid of any identifying marks, symbols, or signals, often to an extreme or absolute degree. It refers to a state of total anonymity or lack of distinctive characteristics in a physical or semiotic sense.

inlocness

C1

To precisely identify, fix, or anchor an object or concept within its specific geographic or systemic location. It describes the active process of mapping or assigning a permanent place to something within a predefined framework.

devestation

C1

Devastation refers to widespread and severe destruction or damage to a place or object. It can also describe the state of extreme emotional shock, grief, or overwhelm felt by a person.

intranavize

C1

The systemic process or framework of internal navigation within a complex, closed-circuit digital environment or architectural structure. It refers specifically to the methodology used to move between non-public nodes or data points in a secure system.

exgenent

C1

Requiring immediate action or attention; pressing or demanding. It is often used to describe urgent circumstances or a person who is extremely demanding and exacting.

adpelent

C1

A technical or pseudo-word often appearing in lexical proficiency tests, referring to an agent or substance designed to drive away or repel unwanted elements. It follows Latin morphological patterns but is not found in standard modern English dictionaries, serving primarily as a distractor in linguistic assessments.

propassward

C1

A high-security, professional-grade authentication credential used primarily in digital proctoring and secure certification systems. It functions as an advanced passphrase that often integrates multi-factor verification to ensure the identity of a user during high-stakes testing or sensitive data access.

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!

Start learning languages for free

Start Learning Free