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

The line between college sports and pro sports has grayed in recent years with NIL and revenue-sharing deals, which in theory might disincentivize athletes who have a lot to lose from taking a chance by joining a betting conspiracy. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 15 Jan. 2026

Now Netflix will in theory be able to offer all of it with just a single subscription. —Brian Welk, IndieWire, 15 Jan. 2026

Attackers could, in theory, make lateral runs in an offside decision, then effectively dip a toe back into an onside position, and be able to run onto any through balls. —Michael Cox, New York Times, 15 Jan. 2026

As Secretary of State and also national-security adviser, Rubio is, at least in theory, the most powerful American diplomat since Henry Kissinger. —Dexter Filkins, New Yorker, 12 Jan. 2026

Rhymes for in theory

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