theoretically

[thee-uh-ret-ik-lee]

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.

Other Word Forms

• antitheoretically adverb
• nontheoretically adverb
• untheoretically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of theoretically¹

theoretical ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Scientists have long believed this was theoretically possible, yet actually achieving it has proven far more difficult.

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So, theoretically, they should be easy to spot before they explode.

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If high-frequency trading is done with minimal human supervision, AI can theoretically eliminate the human element.

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If accepted by the independent forecasters, the inclusion of the proposed EU youth mobility scheme into its calculations could theoretically limit the extent of any new tax rises.

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Another fear is that while some of the ideas may be theoretically possible, the enormous costs and time to scale-up mean they are extremely unlikely to make a difference, according to the review.

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