in theory
idiom
1
—used to say what should happen or be true if a theory is correct
In theory, the reading skills of the students should improve.
2
—used to say that something seems to be true or possible as an idea but may not actually be true or possible
I agree with you in theory, but realistically I don't think we have the time to do that.
Examples of in theory in a Sentence
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Advertisement This season is set in the fall of 1987 which, in theory, should be full of iconic ‘80s fashion with bright colors and shoulder pads.
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Eliana Dockterman, Time, 20 Oct. 2025
The result was a deceptively clever and fluid attacking unit that, in theory, brought enough defensive resilience when needed as well.
—Carl Anka, New York Times, 19 Oct. 2025
The other guys could wash off their makeup and go back to real life, at least in theory, but Ace was all rock star, all the time.
—Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025
Is a bachelor party thrown by 2005 Nelly and Jermaine Dupri better in theory than in practice?
—Andrew Unterberger, Billboard, 16 Oct. 2025
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Eliana Dockterman, Time, 20 Oct. 2025
The result was a deceptively clever and fluid attacking unit that, in theory, brought enough defensive resilience when needed as well.
—Carl Anka, New York Times, 19 Oct. 2025
The other guys could wash off their makeup and go back to real life, at least in theory, but Ace was all rock star, all the time.
—Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025
Is a bachelor party thrown by 2005 Nelly and Jermaine Dupri better in theory than in practice?
—Andrew Unterberger, Billboard, 16 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for in theory
Cite this Entry
“In theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20theory. Accessed 24 Oct. 2025.
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