a precise theory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precise theory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a theory that is clearly defined, accurate, and specific in its explanations or predictions. Example: "The researchers developed a precise theory to explain the observed phenomena in their experiments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Vaught informs us that Tarski found certain difficulties when trying to give a mathematically satisfactory form to the results presented in the seminar, and that this led him to look for a precise theory of the semantical notions (cf. Vaught 1974, pp. 160ff. and 1986, pp. 870ff).

SEP

The lack of a precise theory of pleasure's nature presented no scandal so long as pleasure was thought of as an experience, however variable and generic, typical causes of which might be roughly characterized but for which no verbally explicit real definition was to be expected (Locke and Kant, cited in n. 3; Mill 1872/1979, p. 430).

SEP

Although no direct evidence exists that Crane formulated a precise theory of his craft, he vehemently rejected sentimentality, asserting that "a story should be logical in its action and faithful to character.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

One thing that will help, he explained, is a more precise theory of how the cosmological constant may vary and how it will affect life in the universe.

The New York Times - Science

Since this length is large compared with distances over which stronger nuclear forces act, QED is a very precise theory for electrons.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The statements made by linguists in describing a language should, however, be cast within the framework of a far more precise theory of grammar than had hitherto been the case, and this theory should be formalized in terms of modern mathematical notions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He developed and presented a complete and precise theory for composing fractional sums and differences.

Advances in Difference Equations

Yet such options embarrass if the aim was to derive a precise ethical theory from the very logic of the concepts.

SEP

In the field of nanoscience, it is generally difficult to translate specific experimental observations and thermodynamic principles into a precise quantitative theory of energy and structure.

Geochemical Transactions

These algorithms are useful for analyzing many geotechnical problems, particularly those that lack a precise analytical theory or understanding of the phenomena involved.

Computers and Geotechnics

Its observation completes the standard model, perhaps the most elaborate and precise theory in all of science".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a precise theory", ensure that the theory is well-supported by evidence and clearly articulated, leaving little room for ambiguity or misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid claiming that a theory is "a precise theory" if its predictions or explanations are still subject to significant uncertainty or are based on limited data. Be honest about the limitations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precise theory" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. Ludwig examples showcase its use in academic and scientific contexts to refer to well-defined theoretical frameworks. Ludwig AI validates the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precise theory" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a theoretical framework that is well-defined, accurate, and specific. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and appropriateness. Although its frequency is relatively rare, it is primarily found in scientific, academic, and encyclopedia contexts, reflecting its formal and technical nature. When using this phrase, ensure that the theory genuinely possesses a high degree of clarity and is supported by robust evidence. Alternatives such as "an accurate theory" or "a well-defined theory" can be used depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an accurate theory

Replaces "precise" with "accurate", emphasizing correctness and truthfulness.

an exact theory

Uses "exact" instead of "precise", suggesting a high degree of accuracy and conformity to facts.

a well-defined theory

Substitutes "precise" with "well-defined", highlighting the clarity and distinctness of the theory.

a sharply defined theory

Replaces "precise" with "sharply defined", emphasizing the clarity and distinctness of the theory's boundaries and concepts.

a specific theory

Uses "specific" instead of "precise", emphasizing the particularity and focused nature of the theory.

a clearly articulated theory

Replaces "precise" with "clearly articulated", focusing on the clarity and comprehensibility of the theory's formulation.

a detailed theoretical framework

Replaces "precise theory" with a more descriptive term, focusing on the level of detail in the framework.

a rigorous theoretical model

Replaces "precise theory" with "rigorous theoretical model", highlighting the strictness and thoroughness of the model.

a finely tuned theory

Uses "finely tuned" to suggest the theory has been carefully adjusted and optimized for accuracy.

a meticulously crafted theory

Highlights the careful and detailed construction of the theory.

FAQs

How can I use "a precise theory" in a sentence?

You can use "a precise theory" to describe a well-defined and accurate explanation of a phenomenon. For example, "The scientist developed "a precise theory" to explain the behavior of black holes."

What are some alternatives to "a precise theory"?

Alternatives include "an accurate theory", "a well-defined theory", or "a detailed theoretical framework".

What does it mean for a theory to be "precise"?

For a theory to be precise, it should offer clear, specific, and testable predictions or explanations. It minimizes ambiguity and provides a well-defined framework for understanding a particular phenomenon.

Is it always necessary for a theory to be "precise"?

While precision is often desirable, the level of precision required depends on the context and the stage of development of the theory. In some cases, a more general or qualitative theory may be sufficient or even necessary as a starting point.