theoretically
Americanadverb
-
in principle; according to reasonable assumptions or rules, as opposed to what actually happens.
Theoretically they are free to work, but in practice they can’t because we do not recognize their credentials.
-
in a way that is purely speculative; hypothetically.
It seems that theoretically the central bank could constrain government spending by allowing treasury checks to bounce.
-
according to, or in a way that relates to, a scientific theory.
An alloy with a particular composition can be modeled to determine theoretically whether it has suitable mechanical and physical properties for medical applications.
-
in a way that relates to the set of principles or methods belonging to a particular subject, art, or activity.
Taking classes in all four fields—politics, economics, history, and culture—allows students to be grounded theoretically in the humanities and social sciences.
Other Word Forms
- antitheoretically adverb
- nontheoretically adverb
- untheoretically adverb
Etymology
Origin of theoretically
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“I’m not saying the stock market is bulletproof, but you theoretically take those two risks right off the table.”
From Barron's
It was hugely successful, but we had a flood nine months after we opened, which bankrupted us, theoretically bankrupt, but we were able to climb out.
Yet from the standpoint of information theory, the same ideas could theoretically be transmitted in a far more compressed format.
From Science Daily
The researchers estimate that one-fifth of a typical cord blood unit could theoretically yield enough cells for thousands or even tens of thousands of treatment doses.
From Science Daily
She could still theoretically participate in the women's relay on February 18, but not in the mass start three days later as she does not meet the qualification criteria.
From Barron's
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
