theory

noun
UK: /ˈθɪəri/
US: /ˈθiːəri/

  1. A set of ideas that explains facts or events.

    1. I have a theory about where she went. [ ] [ ]
    2. The scientist developed a theory to explain the strange phenomenon observed in the lab. [ ] [ ]

  2. An idea or belief about something.

    1. That is just a theory, not proven fact. [ ] [ ]
    2. His theory about the company's future success was based on optimistic market projections. [ ] [ ]

  3. The general principles or methods used to study something.

    1. I like the theory of the course. [ ] [ ]
    2. She has a strong grasp of music theory, allowing her to compose complex pieces. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

hypothesis principle concept explanation view belief idea notion

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "theory" in English means: A set of ideas that explains facts or events., An idea or belief about something., The general principles or methods used to study something..

The phonetic transcription of "theory" is /ˈθɪəri/ in British English and /ˈθiːəri/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "theory": hypothesis, principle, concept, explanation, view, belief, idea, notion.

Example usage of "theory": "I have a theory about where she went.". More examples on the page.