theoretical grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "theoretical grounds" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a basis for something that is reasoned or backed up with evidence, but does not necessarily rely on observation or practical experience. For example, "The biologist argued for the species' extinction on theoretical grounds."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I don't think there's a coherent group of economists that argue for it on theoretical grounds.

The New Yorker

And, he has suggested that on theoretical grounds, such capabilities are unlikely to exist.

The New York Times - Science

On theoretical grounds, he should have an iron will, instead of being pliant, docile, compromising.

The New Yorker

A person beginning the study of poker on purely theoretical grounds would find a list of these possibilities indispensable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The research findings provide theoretical grounds for methane drainage.

International Journal of Coal Science & Technology

On theoretical grounds, such a function is to be expected.

Advances in the Study of Behavior

They do not oppose the EU on doctrinaire or theoretical grounds.

Forbes

Yet it is often thought that cash is preferable to in-kind transfers on theoretical grounds.

IZA Journal of Labor Economics

On theoretical grounds, one can suspect that an inflammatory process is present.

EJNMMI Research

The normal inverse Gaussian also has strong theoretical grounds derived from Brownian motion theory.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

On theoretical grounds, such changes in bonding environment are likely to drive Fe isotope fractionation.

Chemical Geology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "theoretical grounds", ensure you can articulate the specific theories underpinning your argument or claim. Avoid vagueness; clarity enhances credibility.

Common error

Don't use "theoretical grounds" when the evidence is primarily empirical or observational. "Theoretical grounds" implies a reasoned, evidence-backed argument without direct observation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "theoretical grounds" functions as a noun phrase that acts as an adverbial modifier, specifying the basis or justification for a claim, argument, or action. Ludwig's examples show its use in academic and scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

67%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "theoretical grounds" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to denote a justification or rationale rooted in theoretical reasoning rather than empirical evidence. Ludwig AI confirms this assessment. It appears most commonly in scientific and academic contexts. When employing the phrase, ensure that you can clearly articulate the theoretical basis for your argument, avoiding vagueness. Alternatives such as "theoretical justifications" or "on the basis of theory" can provide nuanced variations. Remember to avoid confusing theoretical with empirical justifications, as they represent distinct approaches to substantiating a claim. The phrase's prevalence across authoritative sources underscores its reliability and acceptability in formal and scholarly discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

theoretical reasons

This alternative replaces "grounds" with "reasons", offering a simpler and more direct way to express a theoretical basis.

on the basis of theory

This alternative uses a prepositional phrase to express the foundation in theory, providing a more formal and explicit phrasing.

theoretical justifications

This alternative emphasizes the act of justifying something using theoretical reasoning, highlighting the active defense of a position.

theory-based rationale

This alternative phrase explicitly states that the rationale is based on a theory.

reasoning from theory

This alternative emphasizes the process of reasoning or deduction that starts from a theoretical framework.

conceptual grounds

This alternative emphasizes the basis being rooted in abstract ideas or concepts, focusing on the theoretical framework involved.

hypothetical grounds

This alternative suggests that the basis is based on a hypothesis or supposition rather than established theory, indicating a more speculative foundation.

doctrinal grounds

This alternative implies a basis in established principles or beliefs, shifting the focus from general theory to specific doctrines.

abstract grounds

This alternative focuses on the abstract nature of the underlying reasons or basis, highlighting the lack of concrete or tangible support.

academic grounds

This alternative emphasizes a basis found within academic disciplines and scholarship, suggesting a more scholarly and researched foundation.

FAQs

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

You can use "theoretical grounds" to explain that something is supported by logical reasoning and established theories, rather than direct evidence. For example, "The scientist proposed the existence of a new particle on "theoretical grounds"."

What's the difference between "theoretical grounds" and "empirical evidence"?

"Theoretical grounds" refers to justifications based on reasoning and established theories, while "empirical evidence" refers to justifications based on direct observation and experimentation. They represent different ways of supporting a claim or argument.

What are some alternatives to saying "theoretical grounds"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "theoretical justifications", "conceptual grounds", or "on the basis of theory" to express a similar idea.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "theoretical grounds"?

It is appropriate to use the phrase "theoretical grounds" when explaining that a claim or argument is based on a well-reasoned theoretical framework, even if there is limited or no direct empirical support available.