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
Extending the reporting period out to six-month increments allows management teams more breathing room to plan and execute effectively, which, in theory, should lead to better results over the long-term.
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Zev Fima, CNBC, 16 Sep. 2025
The company's suborbital liftoff on May 14 demonstrated that the RDRE, a propulsion technology that existed only in theory for more than half a century, could operate under real flight conditions rather than just on a test stand.
—Josh Dinner, Space.com, 16 Sep. 2025
In the past, these renewals, which take place every five years, have been a formality, but in theory they could be used to carry out a purge.
—John Cassidy, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025
There is also the issue that Kuminga is only going to be 23 years old and, in theory, is still yet to play his best basketball.
—Mat Issa, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
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Zev Fima, CNBC, 16 Sep. 2025
The company's suborbital liftoff on May 14 demonstrated that the RDRE, a propulsion technology that existed only in theory for more than half a century, could operate under real flight conditions rather than just on a test stand.
—Josh Dinner, Space.com, 16 Sep. 2025
In the past, these renewals, which take place every five years, have been a formality, but in theory they could be used to carry out a purge.
—John Cassidy, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025
There is also the issue that Kuminga is only going to be 23 years old and, in theory, is still yet to play his best basketball.
—Mat Issa, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for in theory
Cite this Entry
“In theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20theory. Accessed 19 Sep. 2025.
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