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Definition theory in British English

theory noun

noun
/ˈθɪəri/
1

one or more ideas that explain how or why something happens

Example

The theory predicts low speeds and therefore safety.

Example

He had a theory that the germs caused disease.

2

the set of general principles that a particular subject is based on

Example

the theory and practice of education

Example

psychoanalytic/Marxist/literary theory

Synonyms and related words
3

an idea that you believe is true although you have no proof

Example

I have my own theory about why he resigned.

Example

There is a theory that her death was an accident.

Synonyms and related words
Definition theory in British English