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.
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.