Synonyms for

Theories

Verb / ˈθɪri:z / / ˈθi:ɜ:i:z / Another word for theories — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Theories are ideas that try to explain something that is not yet proven.

Synonyms & similar words

theory hypothesis possibility hypotheses ideas conjectures speculations notions beliefs views opinions postulations theorizings propositions assumptions guesses suppositions assertions concepts philosophies theses suggestions interpretations

Synonyms by register

Formal

hypotheses propositions postulates frameworks

Informal

ideas guesses hunches thoughts

Literary

speculations conjectures

Antonyms

facts certainties realities truths proofs evidence certainty

Common collocations

  • scientific theories
  • economic theories
  • legal theories
  • develop theories
  • test theories
  • support theories
  • complex theories
  • competing theories

Word family

noun theory
verb theorize
adjective theoretical
adverb theoretically

Usage note

The word 'theories' often implies a lack of complete certainty, unlike 'facts' or 'truths'. It's important to distinguish between well-established scientific theories and mere speculation.

Example sentences

  1. Theories help us understand the world around us.
  2. Scientists have many different theories about how the universe began.
  3. Some people have theories about why the sky is blue.
  4. Teachers use theories to help them teach their students.
  5. Theories can change as new evidence is discovered.

Quotes

  • A theory is a supposition which we hope to be true, a hypothesis is a supposition which we expect to be useful; fictions belong to the realm of art; if made to intrude elsewhere, they become either make-believes or mistakes. - John Venn
  • Theories crumble, but good stories stick. - Neil Gaiman
  • Theories are private property, but truth is common stock. - Charles Caleb Colton

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