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
Each ball contained about 1/50th of a gram of radioactive isotopes, enough to register on handheld detectors but (theoretically) not enough to be harmful.
—
Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 28 Oct. 2025
Still, the proof would come experimentally and observationally, not theoretically.
—Big Think, 28 Oct. 2025
Just like sales taxes, the ultimate burden of tariffs can theoretically be paid by the consumers or the foreign manufacturer.
—Matt Fleming, Oc Register, 26 Oct. 2025
Enforcing compliance, Cogan adds, is something that Washington theoretically has the ability and credibility to provide.
—Chad De Guzman, Time, 24 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for theoretically
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 28 Oct. 2025
Still, the proof would come experimentally and observationally, not theoretically.
—Big Think, 28 Oct. 2025
Just like sales taxes, the ultimate burden of tariffs can theoretically be paid by the consumers or the foreign manufacturer.
—Matt Fleming, Oc Register, 26 Oct. 2025
Enforcing compliance, Cogan adds, is something that Washington theoretically has the ability and credibility to provide.
—Chad De Guzman, Time, 24 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for theoretically
Cite this Entry
“Theoretically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretically. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share