hypothetically

adverb

: by making an assumption for the sake of discussion or argument : in a hypothetical way
speaking hypothetically
In this lucid report … he uses genetic differences, maps, computer simulations and an analysis of linguistic changes in the world's languages to hypothetically reconstruct the mass migrations of people across continents since modern humans first appeared. Genevieve Stuttaford
We asked ourselves hypothetically: If the chairmen of the boards of these major tobacco companies walked in here today and said, "Okay, we're ready to do a deal," what did we want? Lewis H. Lapham
used to suggest what is theoretically possible
Hypothetically, you could use a computer to synthesize a large number of harmonics, add them back together, and reproduce a sound similar to that of the bowed violin string. Dragan Huterer

Examples of hypothetically 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.
Arenado would hypothetically be one to consider given the situation. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024 That leaves 82% that have some form of hybrid or remote work and, therefore, could hypothetically make a similar decision to Amazon's. Rob Davis, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024 To the extent the settlement is hypothetically problematic under other areas of law, including state laws, additional litigation beyond the scope of Wilken’s review may be required to convert those concerns into action. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 5 Dec. 2024 If one of the two franchises is, hypothetically, the No. 6 seed and the other is the No. 10 seed, then that could factor into my decision. Sabreena Merchant, The Athletic, 11 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for hypothetically 

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hypothetically was in 1593

Dictionary Entries Near hypothetically

Cite this Entry

“Hypothetically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothetically. Accessed 7 Jan. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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