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
Multivitamins could, in theory, help with both issues.
—
Matt Fuchs, Time, 24 Sep. 2025
As with The Studio, the winking could speak to a culture that cares more for the lost art in theory than in practice.
—Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 23 Sep. 2025
Estimates of what Macy’s real estate portfolio might be worth vary widely, but everyone seems to agree that, in theory, the company could go bankrupt tomorrow and still be more valuable than its current market capitalization of nearly $5 billion.
—Greg Petro, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025
This calendar for transfers, in theory, allows Southern Section teams to play the South Coast — the first major tournament of the fall — at full strength.
—Dan Albano, Oc Register, 18 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for in theory
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Matt Fuchs, Time, 24 Sep. 2025
As with The Studio, the winking could speak to a culture that cares more for the lost art in theory than in practice.
—Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 23 Sep. 2025
Estimates of what Macy’s real estate portfolio might be worth vary widely, but everyone seems to agree that, in theory, the company could go bankrupt tomorrow and still be more valuable than its current market capitalization of nearly $5 billion.
—Greg Petro, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025
This calendar for transfers, in theory, allows Southern Section teams to play the South Coast — the first major tournament of the fall — at full strength.
—Dan Albano, Oc Register, 18 Sep. 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 29 Sep. 2025.
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