in theory

phrase

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

That means some of today's most commercially valuable cannabis companies may be operating on technology that, in theory, falls within the scope of patents granted years earlier. — Peter Su, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

Taken together, these figures mean the system could, in theory, provide around 4 hours of 150 MW supply when fully charged. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 18 July 2026

Increasingly immobilized by zero-sum politics, the federal government remains powerful in theory but is losing much of its capacity to solve many of the nation’s most pressing problems. — John Eger, Mercury News, 17 July 2026

Two rookies starting on the offensive line in Week 1 isn’t all that appealing, but with Fortner starting over Hecht (and/or Samac), in theory, Freeling could be a much more palatable option on the blind side on opening weekend. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 16 July 2026

Rhymes for in theory

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