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

So, theoretically, yes, there could absolutely still be efforts at interference. — Will Gottsegen, The Atlantic, 30 June 2026

With an incredible number of opulent rooms, a sizable grounds, and extensive history, Althorp would theoretically be the perfect site for a large event. — Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 1 July 2026

While declining oil prices could theoretically reduce inflation and put downward pressure on gold prices, other factors realistically outweigh this. — Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 29 June 2026

When deleting this temp file, EncryptPro bypasses the Recycle Bin but doesn’t apply secure deletion, so it could theoretically be recovered with forensic software. — Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 1 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1626, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for theoretically

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