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
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On to the power rankings, which in theory shouldn’t change much after a week with three days off …
Road to the Cup
The five teams with the best chances of winning the Stanley Cup.
—
Sean McIndoe, The Athletic, 30 Dec. 2024
This could be done easily (in theory), without increasing the total number of immigrants, or even while reducing them.
—The Editors, National Review, 30 Dec. 2024
This means that, in theory, only 15 people will have a chance to weigh in on any individual item the board plans to vote on.
—Jessica Seaman, The Denver Post, 19 Dec. 2024
At least in theory, a violent act is considered terrorism when perpetrated by a non-state actor against a civilian target for a political goal.
—Max Abrahms and Joseph Mroszczyk, Newsweek, 23 Dec. 2024
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Sean McIndoe, The Athletic, 30 Dec. 2024
This could be done easily (in theory), without increasing the total number of immigrants, or even while reducing them.
—The Editors, National Review, 30 Dec. 2024
This means that, in theory, only 15 people will have a chance to weigh in on any individual item the board plans to vote on.
—Jessica Seaman, The Denver Post, 19 Dec. 2024
At least in theory, a violent act is considered terrorism when perpetrated by a non-state actor against a civilian target for a political goal.
—Max Abrahms and Joseph Mroszczyk, Newsweek, 23 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for in theory
Dictionary Entries Near in theory
Cite this Entry
“In theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20theory. Accessed 4 Jan. 2025.
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