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théorie

theory

noun teh-oh-REE Less Common

Usage Note

Théorie is a direct cognate. The common phrase en théorie ('in theory') contrasts with en pratique and is widely used in both casual and academic speech. The adjective is théorique and the person is a théoricien/théoricienne. Unlike in English, théorie does not carry the informal dismissive sense of 'just a theory'.

Examples

"Sa théorie n'a pas été prouvée."

Natural Translation

His theory has not been proven.

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