What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
concept
Example
The concept of time is difficult to define. [concept: noun]
Example
She has a clear concept of how the project should be organized. [concept: noun]
theory
Example
The theory of evolution is widely accepted in the scientific community. [theory: noun]
Example
She developed a new theory to explain the behavior of subatomic particles. [theory: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Concept is more commonly used in everyday language, while theory is more often used in academic and scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between concept and theory?
Theory is generally considered more formal than concept, as it requires empirical evidence and validation by experts in the field.
