Japanese meaning of 空理空論
Reading:
くうりくうろん (kuuri kuuron)
English Translation:
Empty theory; impractical argument
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
An impractical or baseless theory with no real-world application.
現実性のない、根拠に乏しい理論。
Cultural Context:
Often used in politics, academia, or debates to dismiss ideas lacking practicality.
政治や学問、討論の場で、実用性のない意見を退けるために使われる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase with “に陥る” or “を述べる” to describe arguments or theories that are impractical and lack real-world application (“空理空論に陥る”).
• Commonly used in academic or policy criticism.
Trap for English Speakers
Might be mistaken as simply “theory,” but it emphasizes the futility and detachment from reality.
Example
Basic Example
その計画は現実性がなく、空理空論に過ぎない。
That plan lacks realism and is nothing but empty theory.
Applied Example
机上の空理空論を並べる上司に、部下たちは生返事を繰り返した。
The boss kept lining up impractical theories, and his subordinates just mumbled half-hearted replies.