as in hypotheses
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
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Recent Examples of theories
This crowdfunded 2017 documentary is part of that mission, collecting theories and stories from the early-‘60s through the present day that all point toward a government cover-up of the truth about aliens.
—
Katie Rife, Entertainment Weekly, 13 June 2026
The two bourbons, separated by nearly eight decades of brand history, embody distinct production philosophies and reflect different theories of what a competition-grade American whiskey should taste like.
—Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026
There have been all kinds of theories, including soaring costs of childcare, the rise of birth control and even the role of car seat regulations.
—Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 12 June 2026
Timed with the development news, Cate has launched a website giving out clues and updates for fans of the short film, along with theories and behind-the-scenes content.
—Matt Minton, Variety, 12 June 2026
Myers said their theories can extend to birth rates.
—Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 12 June 2026
While theories abound that Machado, who will turn 34 in July, has been slowed by age, his average bat speed remains virtually the same as last season and is down only slightly from 2023.
—Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 June 2026
Other theories presented include the prevalence of data.
—Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 11 June 2026
Without concrete answers from the city, family members and interested citizens today remain stuck on a number of theories and details about the case.
—Tanya Babbar, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 June 2026
Katie Rife, Entertainment Weekly, 13 June 2026
The two bourbons, separated by nearly eight decades of brand history, embody distinct production philosophies and reflect different theories of what a competition-grade American whiskey should taste like.
—Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026
There have been all kinds of theories, including soaring costs of childcare, the rise of birth control and even the role of car seat regulations.
—Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 12 June 2026
Timed with the development news, Cate has launched a website giving out clues and updates for fans of the short film, along with theories and behind-the-scenes content.
—Matt Minton, Variety, 12 June 2026
Myers said their theories can extend to birth rates.
—Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 12 June 2026
While theories abound that Machado, who will turn 34 in July, has been slowed by age, his average bat speed remains virtually the same as last season and is down only slightly from 2023.
—Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 June 2026
Other theories presented include the prevalence of data.
—Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 11 June 2026
Without concrete answers from the city, family members and interested citizens today remain stuck on a number of theories and details about the case.
—Tanya Babbar, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for theories
Noun
-
These hypotheses are not mutually exclusive.—
Scott Travers,
Forbes.com,
14 June 2026
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There are three primary hypotheses for how birds might sense Earth’s geomagnetic field.—
ArsTechnica,
ArsTechnica,
28 May 2026
Noun
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On occasion, artists represent dogs gently breaking out of the comforting premises of good order.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
10 June 2026
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That’s not to say, however, that there’s not a touch of Hollywood-style glamor on the premises.—
Katie Schultz,
Architectural Digest,
9 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Theories.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/theories. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.
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