How is the term theory sometimes used differently by the general public than it is by scientists?

The general public often uses the term "theory" to imply a guess or a speculative idea, suggesting uncertainty or lack of evidence. In contrast, scientists use "theory" to refer to a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, supported by a body of evidence and rigorous testing. For example, the theory of evolution or the theory of relativity are robust frameworks that explain complex phenomena, rather than mere hypotheses. This difference in usage can lead to misunderstandings about scientific concepts and their reliability.