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.

---

Other Word Forms

• antitheoretically
  adverb
• nontheoretically
  adverb
• untheoretically
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of theoretically

theoretical ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

theoretically

Closing the gap without cutting pay would theoretically reduce staffing by 50,000, he said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 13, 2026

The costs could theoretically be covered by the $1 billion in funding the federal government has allocated for the Games’ costs.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 8, 2026

"The process of identifying possible materials is so computationally heavy that, in fact, researchers have only been able to theoretically predict the viability of about 20 of these."

From Science Daily ● Jul. 7, 2026

However, a midday kick-off is expected to see temperatures hit highs of about 26C, which will theoretically make conditions even more difficult.

From BBC ● Jul. 3, 2026

Whatever Byrne did, he was theoretically defeated, although the game was far from over.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady