according to theory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to theory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referencing a specific theory or set of theories to support a statement or argument. Example: "According to theory, the laws of physics should apply uniformly across the universe."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

According to theory, most depression arises from an interaction of genes and experience.

The New York Times

According to theory, there could be but one empire; clearly, there were two.

Encyclopedia Britannica

First of all, according to theory, charging is an effective way to manage the use of the resources.

The New York Times

According to theory, the primordial gravitational waves will tell us about the first, infinitessimal moment of the universe's history.

The Guardian

If everything goes according to theory, RHIC will create a quark-gluon plasma that will exist long enough to be definitively observed.

The New York Times

According to theory, its only observable effect is to act as a kind of goo that exerts a drag on particles and imbues them with mass.

The New York Times

Without the Higgs, physicists have no way to explain why fundamental particles weigh anything at all, since, according to theory, they should be massless.

The New Yorker

According to theory, violent collisions produced in particle accelerators should jostle the molasses enough to shake loose a detectable particle -- the Higgs boson.

The New York Times

The idea is to take blood containing Ebola antibodies from survivors and give this to existing patients where, according to theory, the antibodies will then fight the virus.

The Economist

With the collapse of more massive stars, the explosive rebound known as supernova occurs; according to theory, this phase makes possible the synthesis of the heaviest elements.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But this time astrophysicists will know what is happening, so they will get to see whether the X-rays actually behave according to theory.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to theory", clearly specify which theory you are referencing, especially in contexts where multiple theories might apply. This ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "according to theory" without specifying which theory you are referring to. Vague references can weaken your argument and confuse the reader. Always provide context or a citation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to theory" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a statement, explanation, or prediction that is based on a particular theory. It indicates that the information presented is derived from theoretical principles rather than direct observation or empirical evidence. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "according to theory" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to attribute a statement or idea to a specific theoretical framework. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English. It is most frequently found in scientific and academic contexts, with a formal register. This phrase indicates that the information is based on theoretical principles rather than direct observation. When using "according to theory", ensure you clearly specify the theory you are referencing. Alternatives include phrases like "based on the theory" or "in theory", offering slight variations in emphasis. With a very common frequency of occurrence and authoritative sources such as The New York Times and Science Magazine, the phrase is a reliable and effective way to ground your arguments in theoretical knowledge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

based on the theory

Emphasizes the foundation of an idea on a specific theoretical framework.

in accordance with theory

Formal way to state something is aligned with a theory.

in theory

Implies a contrast between what is expected theoretically and what may occur in practice.

consistent with theory

Highlights the agreement between evidence and a theory.

the theory suggests

Attributes the idea directly to what a particular theory proposes.

as the theory predicts

Highlights the predictive power of a theory.

theoretically speaking

Shifts focus to a theoretical discussion, implying a less direct connection to empirical evidence.

from a theoretical perspective

Indicates a viewpoint grounded in theoretical considerations.

from a theoretical standpoint

Similar to "from a theoretical perspective" but may imply a more detached analysis.

the theoretical basis is

Focuses on the theoretical underpinnings or justification for something.

FAQs

How can I use "according to theory" in a sentence?

You can use "according to theory" to introduce an idea or statement that is based on a specific theory. For example, "According to theory, increased investment in education leads to economic growth".

What is an alternative to saying "according to theory"?

Alternatives include phrases like "based on the theory", "in theory", or "theoretically speaking", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "according to theory" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "according to theory" when you want to emphasize that a statement or prediction is derived from a theoretical framework, rather than from empirical observation alone.

What's the difference between "according to theory" and "in practice"?

"According to theory" refers to what is expected or predicted based on theoretical models, while "in practice" describes what actually happens in real-world situations. These can sometimes differ due to factors not accounted for in the theory.