theoretical explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "theoretical explanation" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the phrase when you need to describe an explanation that is based on hypothetical assumptions and principles. For example: The professor provided the class with a theoretical explanation of how light interacts with matter.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Part II: a theoretical explanation.

Nature

Initially, a theoretical explanation was not forthcoming.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Calandra, M. & Mauri, F. Theoretical explanation of superconductivity in C6Ca.

Nature

Y.-D.L. and G.C. provided the theoretical explanation and calculations.

Nature

A theoretical explanation, experimental results and error analysis are presented.

Optics Communications

This phenomenon of superconductivity, which Kamerlingh Onnes discovered in 1911, defied theoretical explanation until 1957.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Laughlin provided the theoretical explanation for these puzzling results in 1983.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The question of whether theoretical explanation can always be construed in causal terms remains open.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some experts argue there is a theoretical explanation for remote viewing and similar powers.

Independent

Its focus is on empirical regularities, and its goal is theoretical explanation.

Stanford University

contributed to the theoretical explanation of the experimental observations and derived the model parameters for their interpretation.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "theoretical explanation", ensure the explanation is grounded in established theories or principles to lend credibility to your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "theoretical explanation" as definitive truth without providing supporting evidence or acknowledging its limitations. Acknowledge the assumptions and potential counterarguments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "theoretical explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where 'theoretical' modifies 'explanation'. It is used to denote an explanation that is based on abstract principles, models, or reasoning rather than direct observation or empirical evidence. Ludwig AI validates its usage as grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

News & Media

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "theoretical explanation" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an explanation rooted in abstract principles and established theories. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted and frequently appears in scientific, academic, and encyclopedic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure the explanation is well-supported by theoretical frameworks, but also acknowledge its limitations and the need for empirical evidence. Alternatives such as "rational basis", "scientific rationale", and "underlying theory" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

theoretical justification

Similar to "theoretical explanation" but emphasizes the act of justifying something using theory.

underlying theory

Shifts the focus to the theoretical basis that supports the explanation.

scientific rationale

Specifically refers to the scientific reasoning behind a phenomenon or experiment.

conceptual framework

Focuses more on the structured set of concepts used to understand a phenomenon, rather than the explanation itself.

model-based explanation

Indicates the use of a model to provide an explanation.

rational basis

Emphasizes the logical justification behind an idea or phenomenon.

principled account

Stresses that the explanation is based on established principles or rules.

analytical framework

Implies a more structured and systematic approach to understanding a concept.

mechanistic explanation

Highlights the step-by-step processes that lead to a certain outcome.

interpretive framework

Suggests the explanation relies on a specific interpretation of data or events.

FAQs

How can I use "theoretical explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "theoretical explanation" to describe a rationale based on established principles, such as: "The researcher provided a "theoretical explanation" for the unexpected results."

What's a good alternative to "theoretical explanation"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "theoretical explanation" include "rational basis", "scientific rationale", or "underlying theory".

Is "theoretical explanation" always based on proven facts?

A "theoretical explanation" is based on theories and models, which may not always be fully proven but are supported by evidence and reasoning. It represents a possible, coherent account rather than a definitive truth.

How does "theoretical explanation" differ from a practical one?

A "theoretical explanation" relies on abstract principles and models, while a practical explanation focuses on observable facts and real-world applications. One explains 'why' through theory, the other 'how' through demonstration.