B1 noun Formal

理论

/li lʊən/

A system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained. It is a cornerstone of academic research.

Examples

3 of 5
1

进化论是一个非常著名的理论。

Evolution is a very famous theory.

2

理论上来说,这个计划是可行的。

Theoretically, this plan is feasible.

3

我们不能只谈理论,要付诸实践。

We can't just talk theory; we need to put it into practice.

Word Family

Noun
理论
Verb
理论化
Adverb
理论上
Adjective
理论上的
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Memory Tip

Theory (理) is the reasoning (论) behind the facts.

Quick Quiz

爱因斯坦的相对论是一项伟大的___。

Correct!

The correct answer is: 理论

Examples

1

进化论是一个非常著名的理论。

academic

Evolution is a very famous theory.

2

理论上来说,这个计划是可行的。

business

Theoretically, this plan is feasible.

3

我们不能只谈理论,要付诸实践。

everyday

We can't just talk theory; we need to put it into practice.

4

学者们正在讨论新的经济理论。

formal

Scholars are discussing new economic theories.

5

别跟我讲大理论。

informal

Don't give me big theories.

Word Family

Noun
理论
Verb
理论化
Adverb
理论上
Adjective
理论上的

Common Collocations

提出理论 to propose a theory
验证理论 to verify a theory
科学理论 scientific theory
经济理论 economic theory
基础理论 fundamental theory

Common Phrases

理论联系实际

integrate theory with practice

一套理论

a set of theories

理论界

theoretical circles

Often Confused With

理论 vs 学说

理论 is a broad system of explanation, while 学说 usually refers to a specific school of thought or doctrine.

📝

Usage Notes

Commonly used in IELTS Reading to describe scientific or sociological frameworks.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often use it to mean 'argument', but it refers to a whole system of thought.

💡

Memory Tip

Theory (理) is the reasoning (论) behind the facts.

📖

Word Origin

理 (logic/reason) + 论 (discuss/discourse).

Grammar Patterns

…的理论 理论上…

Quick Quiz

爱因斯坦的相对论是一项伟大的___。

Correct!

The correct answer is: 理论

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