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

By exploiting this feature of general relativity, warp drives could indeed work, at least in theory. — Micah Hanks, Space.com, 23 Sep. 2026

So in theory, for somebody like Dwayne Johnson, this could be great. — Lane Brown, Vulture, 23 Sep. 2026

Merz could, at least in theory, choose to turn over the task of managing his party to someone else and concentrate on running the country. — ABC News, 21 Sep. 2026

Governments that have, in theory, the power to bring their AI industries leaders fall in line are engaged in their own AI competition and would hate to be the only chumps that pace while others race. — Bhaskar Chakravorti, Fortune, 20 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for in theory

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