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
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Recent Examples of theory
Under one plausible theory of technological development, artificial intelligence will turn the economy into a dystopian split screen.
—
Rogé Karma,
The Atlantic,
2 July 2026
The roles created are not generating value at the rate the theory predicted.
—
Vibhas Ratanjee,
Forbes.com,
2 July 2026
Now, a wave of new theories offers tantalizing solutions — but which ones portray reality is an open question.
—
Quanta Magazine,
2 July 2026
That clearly was not the case, even though, of course, several of the opinions tilted in favor of the strong unitary executive theory.
—
John E. Jones Iii,
The Conversation,
1 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for theory
Rogé Karma,
The Atlantic,
2 July 2026
The roles created are not generating value at the rate the theory predicted.
—
Vibhas Ratanjee,
Forbes.com,
2 July 2026
Now, a wave of new theories offers tantalizing solutions — but which ones portray reality is an open question.
—
Quanta Magazine,
2 July 2026
That clearly was not the case, even though, of course, several of the opinions tilted in favor of the strong unitary executive theory.
—
John E. Jones Iii,
The Conversation,
1 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for theory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for theory
Noun
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The interest rate hypothesis points the wrong direction — the most rate-sensitive occupations, like construction, have the lowest AI exposure.
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Science is designed to estimate risk, test hypotheses, identify patterns, and reduce the likelihood of false causal inference.
Noun
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GameStop's takeover pursuit adds a headline catalyst, but the more durable thesis is that eBay's own operating momentum is improving.
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The thesis rests on a claim that would have sounded absurd a year ago.
Cite this Entry
“Theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/theory. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
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