Theory vs. Model — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on November 2, 2023
A theory is an overarching explanation of phenomena, whereas a model is a specific representation, often used to predict or simulate a theory's applications.
Difference Between Theory and Model
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A theory is a comprehensive explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is supported by a vast body of evidence; it is not a mere guess, but a reliable account of the real world. A model, on the other hand, is a representation or construct that describes processes or phenomena in a simplified or manageable way, often using mathematical descriptions or simulations.
Theories are formulated through rigorous testing and refinement against observations and experiments, aiming to describe and explain the underlying principles of reality. Models are created based on theories and are tools used to understand, predict, or visualize the behavior of systems within the scope of those theories.
While a theory is intended to be a fundamental truth, attempting to consistently explain observed phenomena, a model is typically utilized for more practical purposes, such as forecasting outcomes or exploring complex systems where controlled experiments are not possible. A model's accuracy is a function of how well it conforms to the underlying theory it is based on.
Theories can exist without models, standing as conceptual frameworks for understanding phenomena. However, models often rely on theories as their foundation, serving to apply theoretical principles to specific contexts or scenarios. For instance, Einstein’s theory of relativity is a broad explanation of gravity, while the various models based on it attempt to predict the path of celestial bodies.
It is the theory that gives birth to several models; for example, the germ theory of disease can lead to numerous models predicting the spread of an illness. While a theory seeks to provide deep insights into the nature of things, models are often devised for practical problem-solving within the parameters set by theories.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A system of ideas intended to explain something.
A simplified representation of a system or phenomenon.
Function
Offers a broad explanation of phenomena.
Used to predict or simulate specific aspects of theories.
Flexibility
Generally broad and abstract.
Usually more specific and can vary in form.
Basis
Derived from empirical evidence and logical inferences.
Often based on theoretical frameworks or empirical data.
Application
Aims to provide understanding and framework for research.
Utilized for practical purposes such as simulations and predictions.
Compare with Definitions
Theory
In music, a set of principles and practices of harmony, melody, and form.
She studied music theory to improve her compositions.
Model
A three-dimensional representation of a person or thing or of a proposed structure.
The architect presented a detailed model of the new city park.
Theory
A supposition or a system of ideas explaining something.
His theory about the interconnectedness of social media and self-esteem has sparked much debate.
Model
A system or thing used as an example to follow or imitate.
The United Nations serves as a model of international cooperation.
Theory
A hypothesis intended to explain certain facts or observations.
The theory proposed by the researcher explained the anomaly in the experimental results.
Model
A small object, usually built to scale, that represents in detail another, often larger object.
Theory
A theory is a rational type of abstract thinking about a phenomenon, or the results of such thinking. The process of contemplative and rational thinking is often associated with such processes as observational study or research.
Model
A preliminary work or construction that serves as a plan from which a final product is to be made
A clay model ready for casting.
Theory
A set of statements or principles devised to explain a group of facts or phenomena, especially one that has been repeatedly tested or is widely accepted and can be used to make predictions about natural phenomena.
Model
Such a work or construction used in testing or perfecting a final product
A test model of a solar-powered vehicle.
Theory
The branch of a science or art consisting of its explanatory statements, accepted principles, and methods of analysis, as opposed to practice
A fine musician who had never studied theory.
Model
A schematic description or representation of something, especially a system or phenomenon, that accounts for its properties and is used to study its characteristics
A model of generative grammar.
A model of an atom.
An economic model.
Theory
A set of theorems that constitute a systematic view of a branch of mathematics.
Model
A style or design of an item
My car is last year's model.
Theory
Abstract reasoning; speculation
A decision based on experience rather than theory.
Model
One serving as an example to be imitated or compared
A model of decorum.
Theory
A belief or principle that guides action or assists comprehension or judgment
Staked out the house on the theory that criminals usually return to the scene of the crime.
Model
One that serves as the subject for an artist, especially a person employed to pose for a painter, sculptor, or photographer.
Theory
An assumption based on limited information or knowledge; a conjecture.
Model
One that serves as the basis for a fictional character or place.
Theory
A description of an event or system that is considered to be accurate.
Model
A person employed to display merchandise, such as clothing or cosmetics.
Theory
(sciences) A coherent statement or set of ideas that explains observed facts or phenomena and correctly predicts new facts or phenomena not previously observed, or which sets out the laws and principles of something known or observed; a hypothesis confirmed by observation, experiment etc.
Model
(Zoology) An animal whose appearance is copied by a mimic.
Theory
(uncountable) The underlying principles or methods of a given technical skill, art etc., as opposed to its practice.
Model
Being, serving as, or used as a model.
Theory
(mathematics) A field of study attempting to exhaustively describe a particular class of constructs.
Knot theory classifies the mappings of a circle into 3-space.
Model
Worthy of imitation
A model child.
Theory
A hypothesis or conjecture.
Model
To make or construct a descriptive or representational model of
Computer programs that model climate change.
Theory
A set of axioms together with all statements derivable from them; or, a set of statements which are deductively closed. Equivalently, a formal language plus a set of axioms (from which can then be derived theorems). The statements may be required to all be bound (i.e., to have no free variables).
A theory is consistent if it has a model.
Model
To plan, construct, or fashion in imitation of a model
Modeled his legal career after that of his mentor.
Theory
A doctrine, or scheme of things, which terminates in speculation or contemplation, without a view to practice; hypothesis; speculation.
Model
To make by shaping a plastic substance
Modeled a bust from clay.
Theory
An exposition of the general or abstract principles of any science; as, the theory of music.
Model
To form (clay, for example) into a shape.
Theory
The science, as distinguished from the art; as, the theory and practice of medicine.
Model
To display by wearing or posing in
Model clothes.
Theory
The philosophical explanation of phenomena, either physical or moral; as, Lavoisier's theory of combustion; Adam Smith's theory of moral sentiments.
Model
In painting, drawing, and photography, to give a three-dimensional appearance to, as by shading or highlighting.
Theory
A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world; an organized system of accepted knowledge that applies in a variety of circumstances to explain a specific set of phenomena;
Theories can incorporate facts and laws and tested hypotheses
True in fact and theory
Model
To exhibit (a behavior) in such a way as to promote the establishment of similar patterns of behavior in another
The therapist modeled socially appropriate conversation.
Theory
A tentative theory about the natural world; a concept that is not yet verified but that if true would explain certain facts or phenomena;
A scientific hypothesis that survives experimental testing becomes a scientific theory
He proposed a fresh theory of alkalis that later was accepted in chemical practices
Model
To repeat (a behavior observed in another)
The child was modeling her mother's nurturing behavior.
Theory
A belief that can guide behavior;
The architect has a theory that more is less
They killed him on the theory that dead men tell no tales
Model
To make a model.
Theory
A set of principles on which the practice of an activity is based.
The theory of evolution provides a framework for understanding the diversity of life on Earth.
Model
To work or serve as a model, as in wearing clothes for display or serving as the subject of an artist.
Theory
An idea used to account for a situation or justify a course of action.
My theory is that eating balanced meals contributes to overall well-being.
Model
A person who serves as a subject for artwork or fashion, usually in the medium of photography but also for painting or drawing.
The beautiful model had her face on the cover of almost every fashion magazine imaginable.
Model
A person, usually an attractive male or female that is hired to show items or goods to the public, such as items that are given away as prizes on a TV game show.
Model
A representation of a physical object, usually in miniature.
The boy played with a model of a World War II fighter plane.
Model
A simplified representation used to explain the workings of a real world system or event.
The computer weather model did not correctly predict the path of the hurricane.
Model
A style, type, or design.
He decided to buy the turbo engine model of the sports car.
This year's model features four doors instead of two.
Model
The structural design of a complex system.
The team developed a sound business model.
Model
A successful example to be copied, with or without modifications.
He was a model of eloquence and virtue.
British parliamentary democracy was seen as a model for other countries to follow.
Model
(logic) An interpretation function which assigns a truth value to each atomic proposition.
Model
(logic) An interpretation which makes a set of sentences true, in which case that interpretation is called a model of that set.
Model
(medicine) An animal that is used to study a human disease or pathology.
Model
Any copy, or resemblance, more or less exact.
Model
(software architecture) In software applications using the model-view-controller design pattern, the part or parts of the application that manage the data.
Model
Worthy of being a model; exemplary.
Model
(transitive) to display for others to see, especially in regard to wearing clothing while performing the role of a fashion model
She modelled the shoes for her friends to see.
Model
(transitive) to use as an object in the creation of a forecast or model
They modelled the data with a computer to analyze the experiment’s results.
Model
(transitive) to make a miniature model of
He takes great pride in his skill at modeling airplanes.
Model
(transitive) to create from a substance such as clay
The sculptor modelled the clay into the form of a dolphin.
Model
(intransitive) to make a model or models
Model
(intransitive) to work as a model in art or fashion
The actress used to model before being discovered by Hollywood.
Model
A miniature representation of a thing, with the several parts in due proportion; sometimes, a facsimile of the same size; as, a
In charts, in maps, and eke in models made.
I had my father's signet in my purse,Which was the model of that Danish seal.
You have the models of several ancient temples, though the temples and the gods are perished.
Model
Something intended to serve, or that may serve, as a pattern of something to be made; a material representation or embodiment of an ideal; sometimes, a drawing; a plan; as, the clay model of a sculpture; the inventor's model of a machine.
[The application for a patent] must be accompanied by a full description of the invention, with drawings and a model where the case admits of it.
When we mean to buildWe first survey the plot, then draw the model.
Model
Anything which serves, or may serve, as an example for imitation; as, a government formed on the model of the American constitution; a model of eloquence, virtue, or behavior.
Model
That by which a thing is to be measured; standard.
He that despairs measures Providence by his own little, contracted model.
Model
Any copy, or resemblance, more or less exact.
Thou seest thy wretched brother die,Who was the model of thy father's life.
Model
A person who poses as a pattern for an artist; as, the artist used his daughter as a model for an Indian maiden.
Model
A person who is employed to wear clothing for the purpose of advertising or display, or who poses with a product for the same purpose; a mannequin{1}; as, a fashion model.
A professional model.
Model
A particular version or design of an object that is made in multiple versions; as, the 1993 model of the Honda Accord; the latest model of the HP laserjet printer. For many manufactured products, the model name is encoded as part of the model number.
Model
An abstract and often simplified conceptual representation of the workings of a system of objects in the real world, which often includes mathematical or logical objects and relations representing the objects and relations in the real-world system, and constructed for the purpose of explaining the workings of the system or predicting its behavior under hypothetical conditions; as, the administration's model of the United States economy predicts budget surpluses for the next fifteen years; different models of the universe assume different values for the cosmological constant; models of proton structure have grown progressively more complex in the past century.
Model
Suitable to be taken as a model or pattern; as, a model house; a model husband.
Model
To plan or form after a pattern; to form in model; to form a model or pattern for; to shape; to mold; to fashion; as, to model a house or a government; to model an edifice according to the plan delineated.
Model
To make a copy or a pattern; to design or imitate forms; as, to model in wax.
Model
A simplified description of a complex entity or process;
The computer program was based on a model of the circulatory and respiratory systems
Model
A type of product;
His car was an old model
Model
A person who poses for a photographer or painter or sculptor;
The president didn't have time to be a model so the artist worked from photos
Model
Representation of something (sometimes on a smaller scale)
Model
Something to be imitated;
An exemplar of success
A model of clarity
He is the very model of a modern major general
Model
Someone worthy of imitation;
Every child needs a role model
Model
A representative form or pattern;
I profited from his example
Model
A woman who wears clothes to display fashions;
She was too fat to be a mannequin
Model
The act of representing something (usually on a smaller scale)
Model
Plan or create according to a model or models
Model
Form in clay, wax, etc;
Model a head with clay
Model
Assume a posture as for artistic purposes;
We don't know the woman who posed for Leonardo so often
Model
Display (clothes) as a mannequin;
Model the latest fashion
Model
Create a representation or model of;
The pilots are trained in conditions simulating high-altitude flights
Model
Construct a model of;
Model an airplane
Model
Worthy of imitation;
Exemplary behavior
Model citizens
Model
A person employed to display clothes by wearing them.
The fashion model walked down the runway in the latest designs.
Model
A particular design or version of a product.
The latest model of the smartphone boasts an improved battery life.
Model
In science, a simplified description to simulate a process or system.
The scientists used a computer model to predict climate change patterns.
Common Curiosities
Can a model exist without a theory?
Yes, models can be purely empirical based on observations without a well-developed theory, especially in the early stages of exploring a phenomenon.
What defines a scientific theory?
A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on a body of evidence and repeatedly tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation.
How does a model help in science?
A model helps scientists understand, predict, and visualize complex processes, and can be a tool for testing hypotheses within a theoretical framework.
Can a model become a theory?
No, a model does not become a theory; models are constructs or systems that are derived from and utilized to apply theories to specific situations or phenomena.
Can theories be proven?
In science, theories are not proven in an absolute sense but are supported by a substantial body of evidence; they are always subject to revision and refinement.
Are models used in fields other than science?
Yes, models are used in various fields, including economics, psychology, and social sciences, to represent theories and simulate scenarios.
How is a model tested?
A model is tested by comparing its predictions or representations with actual observations and experimental results.
Do theories reflect the truth?
Theories are the closest approximation to the truth based on current knowledge, but they are always subject to testing and challenges as new information is discovered.
Is a theory always true?
A theory is considered valid as long as there is no evidence to refute it; it is the best explanation based on current knowledge and is always open to revision with new evidence.
Do all theories have models?
Not all theories have models, especially if the theory is not yet fully conceptualized or if the phenomenon is not amenable to modeling.
Are models always physical?
No, models can be physical, mathematical, computer simulations, or even conceptual representations.
Can a theory change over time?
Yes, theories can evolve as new evidence emerges and can be modified, expanded, or replaced by more comprehensive theories.
Is a hypothesis the same as a theory?
No, a hypothesis is a tentative explanation that is tested through research, while a theory is a comprehensive explanation supported by a body of evidence.
Can a model be incorrect?
Yes, if a model's predictions do not align with observations or if it is based on faulty assumptions, it can be considered incorrect or incomplete.
Are economic models considered theories?
Economic models are not theories themselves but are based on economic theories to simulate market behaviors, forecast trends, or test economic hypotheses.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
