theoretically

American  

[thee-uh-ret-ik-lee] / ˌθi əˈrɛt ɪk li /

adverb

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

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Other Word Forms

• antitheoretically adverb
• nontheoretically adverb
• untheoretically adverb

Etymology

Origin of theoretically

theoretical ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

The pork chop — economical, widely available, theoretically versatile — simply didn’t make the cut.

From Salon • Apr. 10, 2026

It's called a dark factory because it's fully automated and can - theoretically - operate in the dark without any human presence.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

Araghchi denied the claim, noting that Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium—and therefore the number of atomic bombs it could theoretically fuel—had been a matter of public record for years.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

And that’s really their only goal: to get you to stay on the website, and then theoretically also come back to the website to hopefully also make sure you have somewhat of a positive experience.

From Slate • Mar. 22, 2026

The process is so cumbersome, confusing, and onerous that many people who are theoretically eligible to vote never manage to get their voting rights back.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander