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

Recent Examples on the Web

During the two-and-a-half years when one of the four tubes will be shut to train traffic, the current LIRR and Amtrak schedules — both of which were slightly reduced as of November in anticipation of the shutdown — should, in theory, be unaffected. —Evan Simko-Bednarski, New York Daily News, 22 May 2025

The project, similar to Israel’s Iron Dome, would, in theory, protect the entire US from long-range missile strikes. —Jade Walker, CNN Money, 21 May 2025

Institutional capital has warmed to tokenization in theory, but many remain on the sidelines awaiting proof points at scale. —Sandy Carter, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025

That’s easy in theory, but executives are typically concerned about the risk of their own projects and the potential impact on their careers. —Tim Koller, Time, 20 May 2025

Rhymes for in theory

• kashmiri
• beery
• bleary
• cheery
• cirri
• dearie
• deary
• dreary
• eerie
• kiri
• leary
• leery