in theory vs theoretically

Both 'in theory' and 'theoretically' are correct phrases that can be used to express something that is based on theory or in a theoretical manner. They are interchangeable in many contexts, but 'in theory' is more commonly used in informal conversations, while 'theoretically' is often used in more formal or academic writing.

Last updated: April 03, 2024 • 270 views

The phrase 'in theory' is correct and commonly used in English to express something that is based on theory or a hypothetical situation.

"in theory"

This phrase is used to introduce a concept or idea that may not always work in practice but is theoretically possible.

Examples:

In theory, the plan should work perfectly.
In theory, this approach is the most efficient.
In theory, the experiment should yield accurate results.
In theory, this design is flawless.
In theory, the concept is sound.

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School teachers distinguished medicine in theory and practice.
I'm a great cook - in theory.
The office of Governor was also, in theory, made hereditary.
This attitude, which in theory suits all parties, is quickly stigmatized.
Most people subscribe to this in theory but not in practice.
But in theory, he should still be a frozen head.
Americans themselves are discovering that unlimited choice seems more attractive in theory than in practice.
So the magazine, in theory, opened like that.
Suppose in theory, you wanted to poison another.
Great in theory, but... wouldn't stop talking.
Probably because, in theory, it wasn't practical.
I know how to summon the Baba in theory...
Stem cells, in theory they can divide forever.
But I have no problem with it in theory.
But I have no problem with it in theory.
And in theory, I support that.
Which, in theory, would provide relief.
The protocol, in theory, is sound.
And then in theory, when we inject them with stem cells...
Humanity actually solved agricultural poverty a century ago, in theory.

Alternatives:

theoretically
according to theory
based on theory
hypothetically
in a theoretical sense

The word 'theoretically' is correct and commonly used in English to indicate something that is based on theory or in a theoretical manner.

"theoretically"

This word is often used in more formal or academic contexts to describe a situation or concept that is theoretically possible but may not always be practical.

Examples:

Theoretically, this model should predict the outcome accurately.
Theoretically, this hypothesis is valid.
Theoretically, this approach is the most effective.
Theoretically, the system should function flawlessly.
Theoretically, this theory holds true.

Show examples from the web [+]

Brain inflammation could theoretically block pain receptors.
In this work d'Alembert theoretically explained refraction.
Severe inflammation could theoretically point toward multiple resuscitations.
Then theoretically you could rekindle the relationship.
Carbone has developed in a theoretically personal way certain notions that the French philosopher only managed to sketch before his sudden death.
Retail deposits are protected in this way therefore theoretically unlimited.
The heat can theoretically be harnessed to generate electricity.
These photons would recrystalise the dilithium structure... theoretically.
But theoretically, his death could be about anything.
1/30 s is theoretically still possible without tripod.
So, theoretically, I could read your aura.
I guess theoretically, I'd say yes.
They are a requirement of theory, but had not been formulated theoretically.
It melts through the ground, theoretically to China.
And if he were here, theoretically... you will.
It's close... but theoretically, Hatteberg.
I mean, theoretically, everybody is dying.
Then theoretically you could rekindle the relationship.
Just because something is theoretically impossible doesn't mean that it's not possible.
All of my calculations have been double-checked, so, theoretically.

Alternatives:

in theory
according to theory
based on theory
hypothetically
in a theoretical sense

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