1. A theory that is temporary, conditional, or subject to revision based on further evidence or research; an initial hypothesis or framework accepted tentatively until better information becomes available
The scientist presented a provisional theory about the origin of the species before conducting more extensive experiments.
O cientista apresentou uma teoria provisória sobre a origem da espécie antes de realizar experimentos mais extensos.
2. In academic or scientific contexts, a working hypothesis or conceptual framework adopted for practical purposes while acknowledging its preliminary nature
We adopted a provisional theory as a framework for our research, knowing it would likely be refined.
Adotamos uma teoria provisória como estrutura para nossa pesquisa, sabendo que provavelmente seria refinada.