Y'all need to learn the definition of a theory in here. When you say "I came up with a theory guys!!!" you're wrong. You came up with a hypothesis.

A theory is a testable set of facts that agree with all available evidence. If there's no testable facts or evidence, there's no theory.

/end rant

I just got finished writing my thesis, and my PI gave me Hell for not using "theory" enough when it's applicable. :I You and he should do coffee.

I'm not sure if it's better or worse that people are misusing "theory" instead of throwing out "hypothesis" for everything since it's a bigger, more sciencey word.

You should have him look up the definition of theory, then laugh in his face.

the·o·ry [thee-uh-ree, theer-ee]
noun, plural the·o·ries.
1. a coherent group of tested general propositions, commonly regarded as correct, that can be used as principles of explanation and prediction for a class of phenomena: Einstein's theory of relativity. Synonyms: principle, law, doctrine.
2. a proposed explanation whose status is still conjectural and subject to experimentation, in contrast to well-established propositions that are regarded as reporting matters of actual fact. Synonyms: idea, notion hypothesis, postulate. Antonyms: practice, verification, corroboration, substantiation.
3. Mathematics . a body of principles, theorems, or the like, belonging to one subject: number theory.
4. the branch of a science or art that deals with its principles or methods, as distinguished from its practice: music theory.
5. a particular conception or view of something to be done or of the method of doing it; a system of rules or principles: conflicting theories of how children best learn to read.

/end correction

That definition is just a theory.

a theory something that is not proven yet...like a idea...

Aye, like gravity.

We know gravity is real, but it may not be the strongest force in nature. I don't claim know anything like most here do..I like to keep open minded about things

I theorize that a theory is anything I can theorize.

That's a hypothesis. A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on a body of knowledge that has been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experimentation.Scientists create scientific theories from hypotheses that have been corroborated through the scientific method, then gather evidence to test their accuracy. As with all forms of scientific knowledge, scientific theories are inductive in nature and do not make apodictic propositions; instead, they aim for predictive and explanatory force.