Synonyms of theory

theory

noun

ˈthē-ə-rē 

as in hypothesis

an idea that is the starting point for making a case or conducting an investigation

set out to prove her theory that people can't really taste any difference between colas, so they buy according to the product's image

Synonyms & Similar Words

• hypothesis
• thesis
• proposition
• premise
• assumption
• suggestion
• guess
• supposition
• theorem
• impression
• proposal
• inference
• hunch
• conjecture
• concept
• speculation
• generalization
• suspicion
• presumption
• notion
• presupposition
• premiss
• conception
• concession
• construct
• abstraction
• surmise
• feeling
• guesswork
• proffer
• inkling

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• fact
• knowledge
• assurance
• certainty

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun theory differ from other similar words?

The words hypothesis and law are common synonyms of theory. While all three words mean "a formula derived by inference from scientific data that explains a principle operating in nature," theory implies a greater range of evidence and greater likelihood of truth.

the theory of evolution

When would hypothesis be a good substitute for theory?

Although the words hypothesis and theory have much in common, hypothesis implies insufficient evidence to provide more than a tentative explanation.

a hypothesis explaining the extinction of the dinosaurs

When might law be a better fit than theory?

The meanings of law and theory largely overlap; however, law implies a statement of order and relation in nature that has been found to be invariable under the same conditions.

the law of gravitation

Examples Sentences

Recent Examples of theory

Kennedy has been a leading promoter of false theories about vaccines being linked to autism. —Lauren Irwin, The Hill, 4 Nov. 2024

Most of the essays, chiefly written by tech executives and academics, advance the theory that the automation of politics through artificial intelligence could save American democracy. —Jill Lepore, The New Yorker, 4 Nov. 2024

And Kate puts Hal to work more, investigating her theory about who was behind the ship attack. —Hilary Lewis, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Nov. 2024

This is where theory meets practice in advancing educational equity. 2024 Black Professionals Summit (November 2-24, Hollywood, FL) Closing out the month, this Florida summit brings together professionals across industries for focused career development. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 3 Nov. 2024