Dictionary monolingual
English
Theory
ˈθɪri
Extremely common
600 - 700
600 - 700
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
Theory -
A coherent group of general propositions used as principles of explanation for a class of phenomena
Example: The theory of relativity revolutionized our understanding of space and time.
Usage: formalContext: scientific and academic discussions
Note: Typically used in academic and scientific contexts to describe established principles or frameworks.
A proposed explanation intended to address a specific problem or question
Example: She has a theory that eating breakfast boosts productivity.
Usage: informalContext: everyday conversations
Note: Commonly used in casual settings to suggest an idea or hypothesis.
A belief or set of beliefs held and taught by an individual or group
Example: His theory is that hard work always pays off in the end.
Usage: neutralContext: discussions on personal beliefs
Note: Can refer to personal beliefs or ideologies held by individuals or groups.
Theory's synonyms
hypothesis
A hypothesis is an educated guess or a proposed explanation for a phenomenon that can be tested through research or experimentation.
Example: The scientist proposed a new hypothesis to explain the phenomenon.
Note: A hypothesis is typically more specific and focused than a theory, often serving as a starting point for further investigation.
concept
A concept is an abstract idea or general notion that helps in understanding a particular subject or phenomenon.
Example: The concept of relativity revolutionized the field of physics.
Note: While a theory is a systematic explanation based on evidence and reasoning, a concept is a more general idea or notion.
model
A model is a simplified representation or simulation of a complex system or process used to study its behavior or make predictions.
Example: The economic model predicts the effects of changes in interest rates.
Note: Models are often used to illustrate theories or hypotheses in a more tangible or visual way.
belief
A belief is a conviction or acceptance that something is true or exists, often based on faith, values, or personal experience.
Example: The ancient civilization held a strong belief in the power of the sun.
Note: Unlike a theory, which is based on systematic study and evidence, a belief may not always be supported by empirical data.
Theory expressions, common phrases
In theory
Refers to a concept or idea that should work according to principles or rules, but may not always work in reality.
Example: In theory, this method should work, but in practice, it doesn't always succeed.
Note: The phrase 'in theory' emphasizes the contrast between what is expected in principle and what actually happens.
Theory of relativity
A scientific theory proposed by Albert Einstein that describes the fundamental ways in which space, time, and gravity interact.
Example: Albert Einstein's theory of relativity revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and gravity.
Note: The phrase 'theory of relativity' specifically refers to Einstein's scientific framework, distinct from the general concept of 'theory.'
Conspiracy theory
A belief or explanation that suggests events are the result of a secret, often sinister, plot by a group of people.
Example: Some people believe in conspiracy theories about government cover-ups and secret societies.
Note: The term 'conspiracy theory' implies a speculative and often unsubstantiated explanation for events, sometimes with negative connotations.
Theory versus practice
Highlights the difference or conflict between theoretical knowledge or principles and practical implementation or real-world results.
Example: There is often a disconnect between theory and practice in fields like education, where real-world application differs from theoretical concepts.
Note: This phrase contrasts the idealized or expected outcomes of theoretical knowledge with the actual outcomes in practice.
Game theory
A branch of mathematics that studies strategic decision-making in competitive situations, such as games or economic scenarios.
Example: Game theory is used in economics to analyze strategic interactions between individuals or groups.
Note: Refers to a specific mathematical framework for analyzing strategic behavior, distinct from the general concept of 'theory.'
Theory of evolution
A scientific theory that describes the process by which species of organisms evolve and change over successive generations.
Example: Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection explains how species change over time through adaptation.
Note: The phrase 'theory of evolution' specifically refers to the scientific explanation of how species develop, distinct from the broader concept of 'theory.'
Theory and practice
Emphasizes the importance of combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience or application.
Example: In this workshop, we aim to bridge the gap between theory and practice by applying concepts to real-world scenarios.
Note: This phrase stresses the complementary relationship between theoretical understanding and practical implementation.
Theory everyday (slang) expressions
Bounce the idea around
To discuss or consider an idea or theory with others.
Example: Let's bounce the idea around and see what everyone thinks.
Note: The slang term emphasizes a casual and informal approach to discussing theories.
Brainwave
A sudden clever idea or insight; a moment of inspiration.
Example: I had a brainwave last night about how to solve the problem.
Note: The term implies a quick and unexpected revelation rather than a formalized theory.
Hunch
An intuitive feeling, suspicion, or guess based on incomplete information.
Example: I have a hunch that things will work out in our favor.
Note: A hunch is a less structured and substantiated form of belief compared to a formal theory.
Shot in the dark
An attempt or guess that is unlikely to succeed due to a lack of information or evidence.
Example: His solution was just a shot in the dark; he didn't have any evidence to support it.
Note: Unlike a theory, a shot in the dark lacks a systematic and logical basis.
Mind-blower
Something that is astonishing, thought-provoking, or mind-bending.
Example: That new scientific discovery is a real mind-blower!
Note: A mind-blower is a more sensational or impactful concept compared to a standard theory.
Wild guess
An uninformed or random guess made without much consideration or evidence.
Example: I don't know the answer, so I'll make a wild guess.
Note: A wild guess is a far-fetched idea without the systematic reasoning typical of a formal theory.
Long shot
An unlikely or improbable idea, plan, or theory.
Example: It's a long shot, but maybe our theory will turn out to be correct.
Note: A long shot implies a low probability of success, contrasting with the structured reasoning of a theory.
Theory - Examples
Theory of relativity
My theory is that he's lying
The hypothesis has yet to be proven
Theory grammar
Theory - Noun (Noun) / Noun, singular or mass (Noun, singular or mass)
Lemma: theory
Conjugations
Noun, plural (Noun, plural): theories, theory
Noun, singular or mass (Noun, singular or mass): theory
Syllables, Separation and Stress
theory Contains 3 syllables: the • o • ry
Phonetic transcription: ˈthē-ə-rē
the o ry , ˈthē ə rē (The red syllable is stressed)
Theory - Importance and usage frequency
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000.
theory: 600 - 700 (Extremely common).
This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
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