theoretically

Meanings

1. 1adverbnot comparable

   According to the ideas or rules of a theory, even if real life may differ.

   Grammar: Often starts a sentence: Theoretically, it should work.

   Patterns

   • theoretically possible
   • theoretically speaking

   Theoretically, the train should arrive at noon.

   It is theoretically possible to walk across the country in a month.

   The plan works theoretically but nobody has tested it.

2. 2adverbnot comparableformal

   In a way relating to theory rather than to practice.

   Grammar: Modifies adjectives or verbs about ideas.

   Patterns

   • theoretically sound
   • theoretically grounded

   The method is theoretically sound.

   She is theoretically trained but has no field experience.

   The study is theoretically grounded in psychology.

Common combinations

theoretically possible

Time travel is theoretically possible, some physicists say.

theoretically speaking

Theoretically speaking, the bridge could hold ten trucks.

theoretically sound

The argument is theoretically sound but hard to apply.

theoretically, at least

Theoretically, at least, we should finish by Friday.

theoretically correct

The answer is theoretically correct.

Synonyms and how they differ

in theory

In theory is the more common spoken phrase, with the same meaning.

hypothetically

Hypothetically suggests an imagined case, while theoretically refers to an actual theory.

in principle

In principle refers to a general rule, with less scientific tone.

on paper

On paper is informal and hints that real results will differ.

Opposites

Word family

theory noun

a system of ideas explaining something

theoretical adjective

based on theory

theorize verb

to form theories

theorist noun

a person who forms theories

Commonly confused: theoretically or theatrically?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “theoretically”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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