just a theory

A phrase often used by science deniers, usually against the scientific theory of evolution. It implies that a "theory" is just an unproven "guess", therefore evolution is an unproved lie. This stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of the word "theory" in the context of science.

In colloquial use, a 'theory' may mean a "guess", but in Science, a 'theory' is defined as "a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world." Therefore the phrase "Evolution is just a theory" makes no sense.

A: Evolution is just a theory!
B: Yes, it is. It's a scientific theory that is supported by the best available evidence. Cell theory is a theory too, do you deny that we are made of cells? And gravity is a theory too, do you jump off of bridges?

by ben-mactavish August 16, 2022

just a theory

A pathetic tactic employed by creationists who strive at reminding us the obvious.

Evolutionary biologist: "Observation indicates that we evolved from lower organisms..."

Creationist: "This is just a theory."

Evolutionary biologist: "Of course it's just a theory. Am I expected to be omniscient?"

by Arjer September 21, 2007

but that's just a theory

...A Game Theory! Thanks for watching!

Consider your childhood ruined, and remember...
But that's just a theory! A Game Theory! Thanks for watching!

by Hobox May 28, 2018

that's just a theory

A GAME THEORY

Personally I think Ness is Sans.
But hey, that's just a theory, a game theory!

by Someone you don't care about. May 29, 2021

But Hey That's Just A Theory

A GAME THEORY!!!!

But Hey That's Just A Theory

by lemonlover69420 May 12, 2022

But that's just a theory, a Game Theory!

Most commonly used by MatPat, owner of the Game, Food, Film and Style Theory channels.

Used at the end of videos to remind people that he is just making theories and might not correct.

*MatPat finishes talking about his Theory* But that's just a theory, a Game Theory!

by BlazingBeast September 23, 2023