in theoretical terms
idiom
: in terms of what is possible or imagined rather than to what is known to be true or real : theoretically
I was speaking in theoretical terms.
Examples of in theoretical terms in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
There’s more than a hint of irony to the last of those appellations, as Segel’s character repeatedly squirms out of offering any personal details about his past or present, while considering his future only in theoretical terms.
—
Guy Lodge, Variety, 18 Mar. 2022
It's always felt like these pundits are talking in theoretical terms.
—Oliver Darcy, CNN, 4 Aug. 2020
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.
Guy Lodge, Variety, 18 Mar. 2022
It's always felt like these pundits are talking in theoretical terms.
—Oliver Darcy, CNN, 4 Aug. 2020
Cite this Entry
“In theoretical terms.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20theoretical%20terms. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share