General:
* Develop: This suggests creating a new theory.
* Formulate: Similar to "develop", but implies more structure and precision.
* Propose: Suggests presenting a theory for consideration.
* Test: Indicates examining the validity of a theory through experiments or observation.
* Support: Implies providing evidence that strengthens a theory.
* Refute: Means to prove a theory wrong.
* Apply: Suggests using a theory to understand or solve a problem.
Specific:
* Explore: Indicates investigating a theory in detail.
* Elaborate: Means to explain a theory more thoroughly.
* Validate: Implies confirming the accuracy of a theory.
* Challenge: Suggests questioning the validity of a theory.
* Abandon: Means to discard a theory that has been proven incorrect.
Examples:
* Develop: "Einstein developed the theory of relativity."
* Test: "Scientists are testing the theory of dark matter."
* Refute: "New evidence refuted the previous theory."
* Apply: "Engineers apply the theory of fluid dynamics to design bridges."
The best verb to use will depend on the specific situation and the intended meaning.