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Theoretically - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Theoretically means based on theory rather than practice. It is used to describe ideas or situations that are possible in principle but may not be proven or applied in reality.

theoretically

/ˌθiəˈrɛtɪkli/ /ˌθɪəˈrɛtɪkli/

Definition:

In a way that is based on theory rather than practice or evidence.

Synonyms:

hypothetically, abstractly, speculatively, conceptually

Part of Speech:

adverb

Antonyms:

practically, empirically

Common Collocations:

theoretically possible, theoretically sound, theoretically grounded, theoretically inclined

Derivatives:

theoretician, theorize, theoretical

Usage Tips:

Use "theoretically" to describe ideas or situations based on theory, not proven facts or practical application.

Common Phrases:

in theory, on paper, all things being equal

Etymology:

Derived from Late Latin "theoreticus," from Greek "theōrētikos," meaning "contemplative."

Examples:

  • 1. Theoretically, this plan should work perfectly.
  • 2. She explained the concept theoretically before demonstrating it practically.
  • 3. Theoretically speaking, humans could live on Mars one day.
  • 4. His argument was theoretically sound but lacked real-world evidence.

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