best available theory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "best available theory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the most reliable or widely accepted explanation or model in a particular field, often in scientific or academic contexts. Example: "In the field of climate science, the best available theory suggests that human activity is a significant contributor to global warming."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

That, in turn, will cast light on the complex field of string theory, which is the best available "theory of everything", even though it requires the existence of not five, but 11 dimensions.Miniature black holes that evaporate in a hail of particles known as the Hawking radiation may also turn up in the detectors.

The Economist

In mathematics, the best available theory concerning infinitesimals was inconsistent.

SEP

and may be provisionally retained as the best available theory until it is finally falsified (if indeed it is ever falsified), and/or is superseded by a better theory.

SEP

We need to reason from the best available theory on human motivation in order to determine whether being informed of genetic risk for developing a disease is likely to be motivating for patients.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

Although the means by which distance discrimination is accomplished is not clear, the best available theory is based on the rotational stiffness.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Historians can turn to the best available theories in the social and behavioral sciences to arrive at theories about causal mechanisms and human behavior; so historical statements depend ultimately upon factual inquiry and theoretical reasoning.

SEP

According to weaker versions of this reading, Locke's project is the naturalistic one of pursuing the philosophical implications of the best available scientific theory, and developing an epistemological basis for it.

SEP

The university team could now claim that it could offer the best available method and theory for very high image quality measurements.

Triple Helix

This is achieved by consensus following a review of the literature for the best available evidence and theories around RTW and the management of occupational LBP, and combining this with the practical experiences of stakeholders.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

We, therefore, aimed to develop an intervention to improve the implementation of a local hypertension CPG based on the needs of healthcare professionals (HCPs), best available evidence, and theories.

BMC Health Services Research

According to the guidance provided by the MRC [ 1, 19], 'Best practice is to develop interventions systematically, using the best available evidence and appropriate theory, then to test them using a carefully phased approach...'..... [ 1] (p. 980).

BMC Palliative Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "best available theory", ensure the context clearly indicates the field or area to which the theory applies. This prevents ambiguity and enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid presenting the "best available theory" as an absolute truth. Acknowledge that it's subject to revision based on new evidence or advancements in the field.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "best available theory" functions as a qualifier to a noun, describing the current, most credible explanation or model within a specific field. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "best available theory" is a phrase used to denote the most credible and widely accepted explanation or model in a particular field at a given time. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While the phrase often appears in scientific and academic contexts, it's crucial to acknowledge the potential for future revisions based on new evidence. Alternatives like "most reliable theory" or "leading theory" can be used depending on the desired emphasis. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the field it applies to and avoid presenting it as an absolute truth. Frequency of use is uncommon, showing up mainly in scientific articles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most reliable theory

Focuses on the dependability of the theory.

leading theory

Emphasizes the prominence and influence of the theory.

prevailing theory

Highlights the current acceptance of the theory.

most accepted theory

Focuses on the widespread agreement regarding the theory.

current understanding

Shifts from 'theory' to a broader concept of understanding.

state-of-the-art explanation

Replaces 'theory' with 'explanation' and emphasizes modernity.

most up-to-date hypothesis

Uses 'hypothesis' instead of 'theory' and stresses recency.

best current model

Substitutes 'theory' with 'model', indicating a representation.

strongest working theory

Emphasizes both the strength and practical application of the theory.

most credible explanation

Focuses on the believability and trustworthiness of the explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "best available theory" in a sentence?

You might say, "Based on the "best available theory", the universe began with the Big Bang", indicating it's the most credible explanation currently.

What are some alternatives to saying "best available theory"?

Consider using alternatives like "most reliable theory", "leading theory", or "prevailing theory" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "best available theory"?

Use "best available theory" when discussing complex topics where knowledge is constantly evolving, and you want to highlight the current, most supported explanation. For instance, "The "best available theory" suggests that dark matter accounts for a significant portion of the universe's mass".

What does "best available theory" imply about other theories?

Using "best available theory" suggests that while other theories may exist, they are either less supported by evidence or have been superseded by a more comprehensive explanation. It acknowledges the tentative nature of scientific understanding.