theoretically

adverb

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal·​ly ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce theoretically (audio)
ˌthir-ˈe-ti-
1
: according to an ideal or assumed set of facts or principles : in theory
2
: in a theoretical way

Examples of theoretically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Revenues would, at least theoretically, improve by the hiving out of commercial and events operations, and member payments would improve as a result, regardless of whether any sell-off took place. — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 31 July 2026 The ballot initiative’s language theoretically limits how tax dollars should be used by county and municipal governments, with the idea that such provisions ensure continued funding for essential services. — Abigail Hall, The Conversation, 30 July 2026 The rush of publicity accompanying the mayor’s office highlighting a list of over 680,000 New York properties that could theoretically be subject to a new tax has inadvertently advertised how public most property data is. — Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 30 July 2026 While not entirely unexpected — robots, like self-driving cars, are mobile sensor packages that could theoretically be used by foreign powers – FCC Chairman Brendan Carr framed the move as an economic one as well. — John Koetsier, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for theoretically

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1626, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of theoretically was circa 1626

Rhymes for theoretically

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Browse Nearby Words

theoretical
theoretically
theoretical reason
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Cite this Entry

“Theoretically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretically. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on theoretically

Nglish: Translation of theoretically for Spanish Speakers

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