Okuzeka
Academic English & Research vocabulary · Literature Review

Theoretical framework

Meaning in academic english & research, with examples

nounCommon term

In academic english & research, theoretical framework means: The theory or set of connected theories that a study uses to explain its problem, shape its questions and interpret its findings.

In Turkish: kuramsal çerçeve, teorik çerçeve

How it is used

Usually presented within or after the literature review, and often as a separate chapter in theses. Researchers adopt, draw on or develop a theoretical framework, and reviewers ask whether it is clearly linked to the analysis. Conceptual framework is a related, broader term.

Example sentences

  1. The study uses self-determination theory as its theoretical framework.

  2. Your theoretical framework chapter should explain why this theory fits your research question.

Common collocations

  • adopt a theoretical framework
  • draw on a theoretical framework
  • theoretical framework chapter
  • develop a framework
  • literature reviewA critical summary of what has already been published on a topic, showing the main ideas, debates and gaps that a new study responds to.
  • conceptA general idea or principle, especially one that is defined and used in a particular theory or field of study.
  • approachA particular way of thinking about or dealing with a problem, topic or research question.
  • draw onTo use ideas, knowledge, experience or data from a particular source to support or build your own work.

More terms: Literature Review

Practise with graded reading

Reading at the right level is the fastest way to make new words stick. Pick free English books by level: