under the theory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under the theory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a specific hypothesis or framework that is being applied to a situation or argument. Example: "Under the theory of relativity, time can be affected by speed and gravity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"It falls, not under the theory of the universe, but under the theory of organic life.

The New Yorker

But we soldiered on under the theory that it might be therapeutic.

The New Yorker

This is under the theory that both are constitutionally protected bad ideas.

The New York Times

Under the theory of retroactivity, the Romney team can keep coming up with explanations until it finds one that works.

The New Yorker

Under the theory, the person said, the section of pipe was removed to make room for the hoist.

The New York Times

All this has been allowed under the theory that the industry is "competitive" and therefore not in need of oversight.

The New Yorker

He operated under the theory that networks should lose money while covering the news in the name of journalistic integrity.

The New Yorker

He was still stripped of his American citizenship, under the theory that he was, at least, Ivan the Very Bad.

The New Yorker

By filing the indictment under the theory of corporate criminal liability, the government is wielding a potent weapon.

The New York Times

His conviction was reversed under the theory that since his firm had no obligation to Pillsbury, he hadn't defrauded it.

The New York Times - Magazine

Splitting the two jobs — under the theory that an independent chairman offers meaningful oversight over a C.E.O.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under the theory", clearly state the theory you are referring to. This provides context and avoids ambiguity. For example: "Under the theory of relativity, time is relative."

Common error

Avoid using "under the theory" without specifying which theory you're referencing. This can confuse your reader and weaken your argument. Always provide the name or a brief explanation of the theory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under the theory" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a statement, action, or belief that is based on a specific theoretical framework. Ludwig examples showcase its use across diverse domains, reinforcing its role in connecting concepts to their theoretical underpinnings. Ludwig AI validates the correctness of this construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "under the theory" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to link concepts, actions, or beliefs to a particular theoretical framework. Ludwig analysis reveals its wide application, particularly in News & Media and Science contexts. It is advisable to specify the theory being referenced to avoid ambiguity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is appropriate for use in formal and neutral registers. Consider related phrases like "based on the premise" or "according to the hypothesis" as alternatives to enhance writing clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

based on the premise

Changes the focus to the underlying assumption rather than the theoretical framework.

grounded in the principle

Emphasizes the foundational rule or guideline supporting the idea.

founded on the notion

Highlights the basic concept or belief as the reason.

relying on the assumption

Focuses on the act of depending on a particular assumption.

according to the hypothesis

Specifies that the statement aligns with a formulated hypothesis.

premised on the idea

Similar to "based on the premise" but uses 'idea' for a slightly broader scope.

with the understanding

Implies a mutual agreement or accepted fact as the basis.

given the rationale

Indicates a stated reason or justification as the foundation.

on the grounds that

Introduces a reason or justification for an action or belief.

assuming that

Focuses directly on the act of making an assumption.

FAQs

How can I use "under the theory" in a sentence?

Use "under the theory" to introduce a concept or action based on a specific theory. For example, "Under the theory of evolution, species adapt over time."

What phrases are similar to "under the theory"?

Alternatives include "based on the premise", "according to the hypothesis", or "relying on the assumption" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "based on the theory" instead of "under the theory"?

Yes, "based on the theory" is a correct and often interchangeable alternative. Both phrases indicate that a concept or action is grounded in a particular theoretical framework.

What's the difference between "under the theory" and "in theory"?

"Under the theory" suggests something is being considered or done according to a specific theoretical framework. "In theory", on the other hand, means something is possible or true in principle, but not necessarily in practice.