Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

competing theories

noun

/kəmˈpiːtɪŋ ˈθɪəriz/

Definition

Theories that are in conflict or disagreement with each other regarding a particular subject or phenomenon.

Examples

In science, there are often competing theories that strive to explain the same set of data.
The debate over climate change has led to several competing theories about its causes and effects.
The field of psychology includes various competing theories of human behavior.

Meaning

Competing theories are alternative explanations or models that attempt to explain the same facts or observations, often leading to debates within a field of study.