theoretically

adverb

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal·​ly ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-k(ə-)lē 

ˌthir-ˈe-ti-

1

: according to an ideal or assumed set of facts or principles : in theory

2

: in a theoretical way

Examples of theoretically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

According to Hongqi, that could theoretically translate into up to 80 km (50 miles) of additional driving range under favorable conditions. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 28 Aug. 2026

What would have once required three robots engineered separately for monitoring a creek, pond, and lake can now theoretically be produced from a single design, simply by thickening rods. — Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 27 Aug. 2026

So, theoretically, if the Postal Service were to propose a rule that would forbid the transmission of ballots that don’t meet their standards, and then that rule is ultimately adopted, then the states would have standing to bring this case. — John J. Martin, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2026

Yet the rules are no less important for that and, theoretically, should encourage more careful fiscal management. — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1626, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for theoretically

• hermetically
• magnetically
• pathetically
• electrophoretically
• parenthetically
• sympathetically