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
Yes, these casting directors knew the right talent to pair with this bonkers story in theory.
—
Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 5 Nov. 2025
Without being able to compute directly from real stimuli, perceptual models could capture ideas in theory but fail simple real-world tests.
—Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 4 Nov. 2025
Starting with the actors, Battle has, in theory, around six major stars who could find a path into the acting categories, with Regina Hall and Benicio Del Toro obviously being the most vulnerable.
—Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Nov. 2025
There is a defence that sounds better in theory than is working in practice, and a half-court offence that is choppy.
—Eric Koreen, New York Times, 3 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for in theory
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Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 5 Nov. 2025
Without being able to compute directly from real stimuli, perceptual models could capture ideas in theory but fail simple real-world tests.
—Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 4 Nov. 2025
Starting with the actors, Battle has, in theory, around six major stars who could find a path into the acting categories, with Regina Hall and Benicio Del Toro obviously being the most vulnerable.
—Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Nov. 2025
There is a defence that sounds better in theory than is working in practice, and a half-court offence that is choppy.
—Eric Koreen, New York Times, 3 Nov. 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 11 Nov. 2025.
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