propose a theory

USAGE SUMMARY

'propose a theory' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest an idea or explanation of how or why something happens. For example, "The physicist proposed a theory to explain the origin of the universe."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

This comprehensive review of the taxonomic relationships of artiodactyls and perissodactyls brings forth new evidence in order to propose a theory of ungulate taxonomy.

The Guardian

Finally, students can write narratives in which they propose a theory on how people overcome challenges, based on their research and personal experience.

The New York Times

ROBERT LEVIN Capitola, Calif., April 3, 2013   In any scientific endeavor, the burden is on those who propose a theory to provide the proof.

The New York Times

At the beginning of the book, Kurzweil promises to reverse engineer the human brain in hopes of using the brain's secrets to advance artificial intelligence, but what he's really done is the opposite: reverse engineer his own companies' computer systems in order to propose a theory about how the mind works.

The New Yorker

To reduce these risks, we propose a theory of correctness for fine-grain concurrent programs.

Electronic Notes in Theoretical Computer Science

We propose a theory of free movement of goods and labor between two economies in the presence of moral hazard.

IZA Journal of Migration

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

In this paper, we propose a theory-based framework designed to provide a coherent evaluation of the distributional impact of local public services.

Journal of Public Economics

In the current paper, we propose a theory-based symptom checklist administration procedure designed to integrate information about symptom topography and function.

Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

We propose a theory-driven, communication function framework for identifying important communication skills, one that is focused on the key goals and outcomes that need to be accomplished in clinical encounters.

Patient Education and Counseling

We propose a theory-based, qualitative approach to strengthen the capacity of research organizations to reflect upon the process of agricultural innovation and to manage programs so as to obtain greater development impact.

Agricultural Systems

The purpose of this study was to propose a theory-driven model to understand the relationship among social website interactivity, brand experience, brand choice, price premium, and buying intention within the context of online travel agencies (OTAs) websites.

Journal of Business Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "propose a theory" in contexts where you are introducing a new explanation or model, particularly in academic or scientific writing.

Common error

Avoid using "propose a theory" when you are merely suggesting an idea or opinion that lacks a systematic framework. A theory requires a coherent set of principles and explanations, not just a hunch.

Linguistic Context

Propose a theory functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase. The verb "propose" indicates the action of putting forward an idea, while "a theory" specifies the object of that action, namely, a structured explanation or model. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "propose a theory" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression, particularly in academic and scientific writing. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It serves to introduce a structured explanation or model, offering a reasoned perspective on a phenomenon. While most frequently found in scientific and news contexts, it maintains a formal and professional register. Remember to clearly define and support your theory with evidence, and avoid using the phrase for simple, unsubstantiated ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

put forward a theory

This alternative emphasizes the act of presenting a theory for consideration.

advance a theory

Suggests promoting or advocating for a particular theory.

posit a theory

This is a more formal way of saying "propose a theory".

hypothesize a theory

This emphasizes the speculative nature of the theory being suggested.

formulate a theory

Focuses on the process of developing or creating the theory.

develop a theory

Highlights the elaboration and refinement of the theory.

present a theory

This focuses on the act of showing a theory.

suggest a theory

A more general way of introducing a theory.

theorize

A verb form focusing on the act of creating a theory.

float a theory

Suggests introducing a theory in a tentative or exploratory manner.

FAQs

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

You can use "propose a theory" when you want to introduce a new explanation for something. For instance, "The scientist will propose a theory to explain the recent climate changes."

What is a more formal alternative to "propose a theory"?

Alternatives such as "posit a theory" or "advance a theory" can be used for a more formal tone.

What is the difference between "propose a theory" and "suggest a theory"?

"Propose a theory" often implies a more structured and reasoned explanation, while "suggest a theory" can refer to a more tentative or preliminary idea.

When is it appropriate to use "propose a theory" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "propose a theory" when introducing a new explanation or model, especially in academic or scientific writing where a systematic framework is expected.