devise a theory of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devise a theory of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the creation or formulation of a theoretical framework or concept in various fields such as science, philosophy, or social studies. Example: "In her research, she aims to devise a theory of human behavior that accounts for both genetic and environmental factors."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

He referred to the case as one of the crucial puzzles he needed to solve when trying to devise a theory of biological inheritance.

The Guardian - Books

Unlike some of the more complicated efforts to devise a theory of everything, this one should either succeed relatively rapidly or fail spectacularly.

The Economist

It might be said that we first ought to find out whether the boundary conditions are lawlike, and then devise a theory of law appropriate to the answer.

SEP

However, the lessons of these experiments can be used to devise a theory of five principles needed for successful electricity market liberalization, providing policymakers and legislators with a crucial checklist to be consulted before designing such measures.

The Electricity Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The use of weather charts in a modern sense began in the middle portion of the 19th century in order to devise a theory on storm systems.

Wikipedia

He also devised a theory of harmony based on affinities with algebra and geometry, set forth in his Trattato di musica (1754; "Treatise on Music") and expanded into Dissertazione dei principi dell'armonia musicale (1767; "Dissertation on the Principles of Musical Harmony").

Encyclopedia Britannica

He had, after all, devised a theory of mountain uplift as well as its inverse, the formation of coral atolls, while on the Beagle.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

No one underlined this point more securely than Charles Darwin, who devised a theory of evolution that defied the strongest belief of his time, the all but universal belief in the bible version of the origins of man.

Huffington Post

In order to test the possibility of a universal morality, Kohlberg devised a theory for the development of moral reasoning based on stages that could be observed, or at least imagined, in humans.

The Guardian - Opinion

April 22, 1887 Copenhagen, Denmark January 22 , 1951Copenhagen, Denmark Harald August Bohr, (born April 22, 1887, Copenhagen, Den. died Jan . 22 1951, Copenhagen) Danish mathematician who devised a theory that concerned generalizations of functions with periodic properties, the theory of almost periodic functions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1958 he and the American physicist Murray Gell-Mann devised a theory that accounted for most of the phenomena associated with the weak force, which is the force at work in radioactive decay.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "devise a theory of", ensure that the theory is well-supported by evidence and logical reasoning. Clearly articulate the key assumptions, concepts, and predictions of the theory to enhance its credibility.

Common error

Avoid making broad claims or generalizations when you "devise a theory of" something. Base your theory on specific observations and empirical data, rather than relying on anecdotal evidence or personal opinions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devise a theory of" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of creating or formulating a new theory. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English. It's often used in academic, scientific, and formal contexts to describe the process of developing a theoretical framework.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "devise a theory of" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to describe the act of creating a theoretical framework. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, this phrase emphasizes the intellectual work involved in formulating new explanations for various phenomena. When using this phrase, ensure your theory is well-supported and logically sound. Alternatives like "formulate a theory of" or "develop a theory of" can offer nuanced emphasis on specific aspects of theory creation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

formulate a theory of

This alternative emphasizes the precise and systematic articulation of a theory.

develop a theory of

This alternative highlights the gradual and progressive nature of theory creation.

construct a theory of

This alternative stresses the building and assembling of a theory from various components.

establish a theory of

This alternative focuses on the validation and acceptance of a newly created theory.

conceive a theory of

This alternative highlights the initial mental creation or envisioning of a theory.

frame a theory of

This alternative emphasizes the structuring and outlining of a theoretical framework.

hypothesize a theory of

This alternative refers to formulating a theory as a hypothesis to be tested.

architect a theory of

This alternative suggests a carefully planned and designed theory.

craft a theory of

This alternative implies a skillful and artful creation of a theory.

model a theory of

This alternative focuses on creating a simplified representation of a complex phenomenon.

FAQs

What does "devise a theory of" mean?

The phrase "devise a theory of" means to create or formulate a new theoretical framework or explanation for a phenomenon. It involves developing a set of ideas and principles to understand and explain something.

How can I use "devise a theory of" in a sentence?

You can use "devise a theory of" to describe the process of creating a theoretical explanation. For example: "Scientists are working to "formulate a theory of" dark matter" or "The researcher aimed to "develop a theory of" consumer behavior".

What are some alternatives to "devise a theory of"?

Some alternatives to "devise a theory of" include "formulate a theory of", "develop a theory of", "construct a theory of", or "establish a theory of". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "devise a theory of" or "develop a theory of"?

Both "devise a theory of" and "develop a theory of" are correct and appropriate, but they emphasize different aspects. "Devise" implies inventing or creating something new, while "develop" suggests a gradual process of growth and refinement. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the initial creation or the subsequent evolution of the theory.