理论 (lǐlùn) — theory

理论 (lǐlùn)

理论 refers to a systematic body of ideas or principles used to explain phenomena or guide practice, encompassing both scientific theory and general theoretical frameworks.

Meanings

1. [noun] theory, theoretical framework (organized explanatory principles)
2. [adjective] theoretical (as in 理论上, in theory)

Example Sentences

达尔文的进化理论从根本上改变了人类对生命起源的认识。 Dá'ěrwén de jìnhuà lǐlùn cóng gēnběn shàng gǎibiàn le rénlèi duì shēngmìng qǐyuán de rènshi. Darwin's theory of evolution fundamentally changed human understanding of the origin of life.

理论联系实际是学习的重要原则。 Lǐlùn liánxì shíjì shì xuéxí de zhòng yào yuánzé. Connecting theory with practice is an important principle of learning.

这位经济学家提出了一套全新的市场理论。 Zhè wèi jīngjì xuéjiā tíchū le yī tào quánxīn de shìchǎng lǐlùn. This economist proposed a brand new market theory.

理论上这个方法可行，但实际操作中存在很多困难。 Lǐlùn shàng zhège fāngfǎ kěxíng, dàn shíjì cāozuò zhōng cúnzài hěn duō kùnnan. In theory this method is feasible, but there are many difficulties in actual operation.

批判性思维要求我们不盲目接受任何理论。 Pīpàn xìng sīwéi yāoqiú wǒmen bù mángmù jiēshòu rènhé lǐlùn. Critical thinking requires us not to blindly accept any theory.

该研究为理论创新提供了重要的实证支持。 Gāi yánjiū wèi lǐlùn chuàngxīn tígōng le zhòng yào de shízhèng zhīchí. This research provided important empirical support for theoretical innovation.

Collocations

Usage Notes

理论 is used both as a noun (a theory) and as an adjective in the phrase 理论上 (theoretically, in theory). The phrase 理论联系实际 (connecting theory with practice) is one of the most quoted educational and political principles in Chinese discourse. 理论 often implies a well-developed, systematic set of ideas rather than just a casual hypothesis (假设).

At B2 level, 理论 is essential for academic writing, scientific discussion, and any context involving systematic analysis or explanation.

Memory Hook

理 means to reason or sort out, and 论 means to discuss or argue -- 理论 is reasoned argumentation, the organized reasoning that explains why things are the way they are.