theory

[thee-uh-ree, theer-ee] / ˈθi ə ri, ˈθɪər i /

NOUN

hypothesis, belief

Synonyms

STRONGEST

approach argument assumption code concept doctrine idea ideology method philosophy plan position premise proposal provision rationale scheme speculation suspicion system thesis understanding

STRONG

base basis codification conditions conjecture dogma feeling foundation grounds guess guesswork hunch impression outlook postulate presentiment presumption shot stab supposal supposition surmise theorem

WEAK

formularization suppose systemization

Antonyms

STRONGEST

disbelief fact information reality truth

STRONG

calculation knowledge measurement proof

WEAK

certainty

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Critically, Cembalest’s argument in support of this conclusion doesn’t rest on theory or conjecture.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

One theory was that Ford suffered from tunnel vision.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 2026

Neither of them made any substantive changes to core Roman Catholic doctrine, but when you’re the bishop of Rome and the head of the world’s largest single religious denomination, practice matters more than theory.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

One theory believed to be part of the investigation is that the school, next to an Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps base, could have been hit as a result of outdated intelligence.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Maybe the chaos theory of cosmology could explain it.

From "Shine!" by J.J. and Chris Grabenstein

theory

Example Sentences

Related Words