1 an idea or explanation which has not yet been proved to be correct: There are many theories about the origin of life; In theory, I agree with you, but it would not work in practice.
az: nəzəriyyə
ru: теория
2 the main principles and ideas in an art, science etc as opposed to the practice of actually doing it: A musician has to study both the theory and practice of music.
az: nəzəri biliklər
ru: теоретические основы