pet theory

USAGE SUMMARY

"pet theory" is a correct and widely-used phrase in written English.
It refers to an idea or opinion that is strongly held, but may or may not be based in fact. For example, "My pet theory is that people shouldn't eat too much dairy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mr Geroski has his own pet theory.

The Economist

My pet theory is choice number three.

The Guardian - Opinion

I have a pet theory about what's going on.

The New York Times

As it happens, I have a pet theory about that, too.

The New Yorker

A pet theory of mine, not the author's, but I thought I'd toss it in here.

The New York Times - Books

But while we are playing this game, let me present my own pet theory.

The New Yorker

Many scholars have leaped to promote a pet theory, which often coincided with a favorite policy recommendation.

The New York Times - Arts

Time after time, theorists invent a particle they need for a pet theory to work and -- voila!

The New York Times - Magazine

All you need is a pet theory, and an idea for an experiment you can do to test it.

The Guardian

Relentlessly, I pursued my advantage, and gave vent to my pet theory, which youse readers have heard often enough.

The New Yorker

Disembodied voices rear up on the soundtrack, each with their own pet theory, their own lurid conspiracy.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pet theory" to suggest an idea that someone is particularly fond of and promotes, even if others are skeptical.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "pet theory" as an established fact. The term inherently suggests a personal belief that might not be widely accepted or thoroughly proven.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pet theory" functions as a noun phrase typically used as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a favored, personal idea or explanation that may not be supported by substantial evidence. Ludwig confirms its validity and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

7%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pet theory" is a common and valid expression, as validated by Ludwig, denoting a personal, often unproven, belief or explanation. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, the expression carries a neutral register, suitable for expressing subjective viewpoints while acknowledging a potential lack of rigorous evidence. While grammatically correct, it's essential to avoid presenting a "pet theory" as an established fact. Consider alternatives like "personal hypothesis" or "favored explanation" depending on the context to either formalize the statement or stress subjectivity. In essence, while "pet theory" is frequently used, it's important to be mindful of its implications and appropriateness in different writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pet idea

A more direct synonym, simply replacing "theory" with "idea" to maintain the same meaning.

personal hypothesis

Replaces "theory" with "hypothesis", suggesting a more formal, testable idea, while keeping the sense of personal investment.

favored explanation

Focuses on the idea as an explanation, highlighting the subjective preference for it.

personal speculation

Replaces "theory" with "speculation", implying the idea is based on conjecture rather than evidence.

preferred interpretation

Focuses on the idea as a way of understanding something, highlighting the subjective choice.

cherished belief

Emphasizes the emotional attachment to the idea, rather than its intellectual basis.

personal conjecture

Suggests the idea is based on guesswork or incomplete information.

private conviction

Highlights the strong, personal belief in the idea, even without external validation.

personal notion

Substitutes "theory" with "notion", implying a less developed or substantiated idea.

private opinion

Emphasizes that the idea is a personal viewpoint, not necessarily a well-researched conclusion.

FAQs

What does "pet theory" mean?

A "pet theory" is a personal idea or explanation that someone favors, often without substantial evidence or widespread acceptance. It implies a subjective viewpoint.

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

You might say, "My "pet theory" is that the increase in remote work will lead to a decline in urban real estate values", to express a personal belief about a potential trend.

What are some alternatives to "pet theory"?

You can use alternatives like "personal hypothesis", "cherished belief", or "favored explanation" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "pet theory" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "pet theory" is more suitable for informal or semi-formal contexts. In academic or professional writing, consider using more neutral terms like "hypothesis" or "personal interpretation".