formulate a theory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formulate a theory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of creating or developing a theoretical framework or explanation for a phenomenon. Example: "After extensive research, the scientists were able to formulate a theory that explained the unusual behavior of the particles."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Will we one day spawn a human who can formulate a theory that can explain these things?

The Guardian

In 1881 the Cuban physician and epidemiologist Carlos Juan Finlay began to formulate a theory of insect transmission.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Friston was not content to formulate a theory of the human brain; he had applied his principle to animals, even plants.

The New Yorker

No attempt to then put "things" into perspective, to formulate a theory of liberalism or intervention or anything that stands up in relation to all circumstances.

The Guardian

This characteristic has led some scholars to formulate a theory of a "life cycle" or "natural history" common to all social movements.

Encyclopedia Britannica

American sociologist Talcott Parsons elaborated on the work of Durkheim and Radcliffe-Brown by using their insights on social structure to formulate a theory that was valid for large and complex societies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

There's a lot of time for thinking while running 26 miles and I had begun formulating a theory.

The Guardian - Sport

Nobody had so far formulated a theory of the development of life, free from the guiding hand of the Creator.

The Guardian - Books

Kermani has observed Ashbery's behavior in Hudson and in Chelsea and has formulated a theory about the difference.

The New Yorker

Mr. Samuelson also formulated a theory of public goods — that is, goods that can be provided effectively only through collective, or government, action.

The New York Times

The term was adopted and popularized by literary critics from the writings of the psychologist Carl Jung, who formulated a theory of a "collective unconscious".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "formulate a theory", ensure that the theory is based on evidence and logical reasoning, as opposed to pure speculation. Strong theories have testable hypotheses.

Common error

Avoid presenting a newly "formulated a theory" as absolute truth. Acknowledge it as a working model subject to further testing and refinement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formulate a theory" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of creating a structured explanation for a phenomenon. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and broad applicability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "formulate a theory" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies the act of developing a theory. Ludwig AI confirms this. It is most commonly found in scientific, news and media, and encyclopedic content. When writing, ensure that the newly "formulated a theory" is based on evidence and logic, not presented as absolute truth. Alternatives include "develop a theory", "construct a theory", and "propose a theory".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Develop a theory

Focuses on the process of creating a theory over time.

Construct a theory

Emphasizes the systematic building of a theory.

Propose a theory

Highlights the act of putting forth a theory for consideration.

Hypothesize a theory

Emphasizes the speculative nature of the theory's creation.

Establish a theory

Focuses on setting up or proving validity of a theory.

Create a theoretical framework

Highlights the overall structure and system of thought.

Conceptualize a theory

Focuses on forming a mental idea or concept for the theory.

Frame a theory

Highlights the act of outlining or structuring the theory.

Draft a theory

Emphasizes the initial writing or planning stage of a theory.

Design a theory

Highlights the intentional planning and structure involved in creating a theory.

FAQs

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

You can use "formulate a theory" to describe the process of developing a logical explanation for a phenomenon. For example, "Scientists often conduct experiments to "formulate a theory" about the natural world".

What can I say instead of "formulate a theory"?

You can use alternatives like "develop a theory", "propose a theory", or "construct a theory" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "formulate a theory" or "develop a theory"?

Both "formulate a theory" and "develop a theory" are correct and commonly used. "Formulate" emphasizes the initial creation, while "develop" suggests a more ongoing process.

What's the difference between "formulate a theory" and "test a theory"?

"Formulate a theory" refers to the initial creation of a theory, while "test a theory" refers to the process of evaluating its validity through experiments and observations. Once you "formulate a theory", you must then test it to determine its accuracy.