based on theory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on theory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing concepts, ideas, or conclusions that are derived from theoretical frameworks or principles. Example: "The results of the experiment were based on theory, which suggested that the reaction would occur under specific conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It might be that the first set of trials prove the idea isn't feasible because at the moment it's all based on theory".

The Guardian - Sport

School-based suicide prevention programs based on theory and evidence are necessary.

BMC Public Health

Additionally, three points were arranged in the pillar sides and one point in the middle region based on theory estimating.

International Journal of Coal Science & Technology

Let me conclude with my own claim, one that is not provocative but based on theory and empirical evidence.

Huffington Post

By Piers Sellers August 17, 2016 Climate science is based on theory.

The New Yorker

An entrepreneurial curriculum obviously will have some core classes based on theory, lecture and mentorship.

University of California, Berkeley

The classical method of teaching such courses is largely based on theory and little practical sessions.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

To be effective, health promotion programs need to be based on theory, evidence, and data from at-risk populations.

Columbia University

Much of what we believe about the best ways to compensate and motivate the sales force is based on theory and lab experiments.

Harvard Business Review

Conditions were selected based on theory and experience implementing MOVE! and were calibrated using QCA methods.

Duke University

Asymptotic distribution of ∆AUC, NRIs, and IDI based on theory of U-statistics.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "based on theory", ensure you can clearly articulate the specific theory or theories that underpin your statement. This adds credibility and allows readers to understand the rationale behind your claims.

Common error

Avoid presenting something as definitively true simply because it's "based on theory". Theories are frameworks for understanding, not guarantees of correctness. Acknowledge potential limitations and empirical evidence that may challenge the theory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on theory" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates that something is founded upon, derived from, or consistent with a particular theory or set of theoretical principles. It connects the subject to a theoretical basis, providing a rationale or explanation for its existence or behavior.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

58%

News & Media

23%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "based on theory" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it's employed to indicate that something is derived from or grounded in theoretical principles. Its use is particularly common in scientific and academic contexts, lending credibility to claims by anchoring them in established theoretical frameworks. While versatile, it's important to acknowledge that theoretical support doesn't guarantee correctness, and empirical validation remains crucial. Alternatives like "grounded in theory" or "derived from theory" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression. As a whole, "based on theory" serves as a valuable tool for conveying the theoretical underpinnings of ideas and arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grounded in theory

Emphasizes a solid foundation or basis in theoretical concepts.

derived from theory

Highlights the process of obtaining or developing something from theoretical principles.

theoretically supported

Indicates that the idea or concept has theoretical backing.

founded on theory

Stresses the establishment or creation of something based on a theoretical framework.

conceptually based

Focuses on the conceptual underpinnings and intellectual foundation.

hypothetically supported

Highlights that the concept has theoretical backing but lacks practical evidence.

premised on theory

Indicates that something is built upon or assumes the validity of a theory.

drawing from theory

Suggests that elements are being actively taken or extracted from theoretical knowledge.

rooted in theory

Emphasizes a deep and fundamental connection to theoretical origins.

informed by theory

Suggests that theory provides guidance or influence without being the sole basis.

FAQs

How can I use "based on theory" in a sentence?

You can use "based on theory" to indicate that an idea, concept, or approach is derived from or supported by a particular theory. For example, "The intervention strategy was "based on theory" of planned behavior."

What are some alternatives to "based on theory"?

Alternatives include "grounded in theory", "derived from theory", or "theoretically supported". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always a good thing for something to be "based on theory"?

While being "based on theory" can lend credibility and provide a solid foundation, it's essential to remember that theories are not infallible. Empirical evidence and practical application are also crucial for validating ideas and approaches. Clinical decisions "based on theory" alone are notoriously suspect.

What's the difference between "based on theory" and "based on evidence"?

"Based on theory" means that something is derived from a theoretical framework or model, while "based on evidence" means that it is supported by empirical data and observations. Ideally, the two should complement each other.