Théoriques

Théoriques is the plural form of the French adjective théorique, meaning "theoretical." It describes ideas, models, or frameworks that pertain to theory rather than practice or empirical observation. In academic discourse, théoriques often qualify what is proposed, such as bases théoriques (theoretical foundations) or modèles théoriques (theoretical models).

The term is used to distinguish between what is inferred or assumed in theory and what is demonstrated in practice or observed in data, empirical results being described as empiriques. The noun form théorique is the base, and théoriques thus function to modify nouns of any gender in plural.

In French, the word derives from the Greek theōrikós via Latin theoricus, reflecting its origin in contemplation and theory rather than action. In research, un cadre théorique provides the conceptual lens through which a study is designed, while une hypothèse théorique is a theoretical hypothesis that awaits empirical testing.

Theoretical work interacts with empirical work: models and theories generate hypotheses that can be tested; data may support, refine, or challenge them. The term is common across disciplines such as philosophy, sociology, economics, and the natural sciences, though the weight and credibility of théoriques depend on evidence and methodological rigor. Critics may distinguish between théoriques as abstract without practical viability and applied approaches that prioritize implementation. See also théorique, théorie, cadre théorique.