variants
also theoretic
1
as in hypothetical
existing only as an assumption or speculation
the merits of the new testing procedures are purely theoretical, since no one has ever used them before
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in metaphysical
dealing with or expressing a quality or idea
the theoretical musings in his new book are less engaging than the anecdote-driven arguments of his previous works
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of theoretical
If researchers complete the proof that quantum computers truly surpass classical ones at a specific task, that will automatically put quantum cryptography on much stronger theoretical footing than practically any kind of classical cryptography.
—
Ben Brubaker, Quanta Magazine, 25 July 2025
Steinman published a theoretical analysis of suspension-bridge stability, recommending that future bridge designs include deep trusses to stiffen the bridge deck and an open-grid roadway to reduce its wind resistance.
—Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 24 July 2025
With this new result, there is plenty of room for theoretical exploration into possible explanations and radical new theories of the cosmos.
—Paul Sutter, Space.com, 24 July 2025
Richard Feynman, the Nobel Prize-winning theoretical physicist, is a great example.
—Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 24 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for theoretical
Ben Brubaker, Quanta Magazine, 25 July 2025
Steinman published a theoretical analysis of suspension-bridge stability, recommending that future bridge designs include deep trusses to stiffen the bridge deck and an open-grid roadway to reduce its wind resistance.
—Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 24 July 2025
With this new result, there is plenty of room for theoretical exploration into possible explanations and radical new theories of the cosmos.
—Paul Sutter, Space.com, 24 July 2025
Richard Feynman, the Nobel Prize-winning theoretical physicist, is a great example.
—Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 24 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for theoretical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for theoretical
Adjective
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Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller recently put together a hypothetical trade package that would send Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcántara to the Blue Jays in exchange for Arjun Nimmala and Charles McAdoo.—
Zach Pressnell,
MSNBC Newsweek,
31 July 2025
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The latest Emerson College survey created hypothetical 2028 match-ups between Vice President JD Vance, a Republican, and three prominent Democrats: California Gov. Gavin Newsom, New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and former Transportation Sec.—
Brendan Rascius,
Miami Herald,
28 July 2025
Adjective
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Vendors will offer beads, minerals, gemstones, custom jewelry, fossils, artifacts, and metaphysical stones.—
Joe Rassel,
The Orlando Sentinel,
23 July 2025
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This exchange happens near the beginning of The Stone Door, Leonora Carrington’s metaphysical novel of the Second World War, in a dream of her nameless narrator.—
Celia Bell
July 22,
Literary Hub,
22 July 2025
Adjective
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The Sirens is a compelling mix of contemporary, historical, and speculative fiction told through multiple points of view, mysterious dreams, and magical revelations.—
Kalie Cassidy
July 25,
Literary Hub,
25 July 2025
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Again, nothing’s been finalized and the financial details remain wholly in the arena of the speculative.—
Anthony Crupi,
Sportico.com,
25 July 2025
Adjective
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Kesha was styled in a custom miniskirt and bracelet made entirely of e.l.f.’s Jelly Pop primer tubes and lip oil respectively, designed by conceptual artist Gab Bois.—
Essence,
Essence,
28 July 2025
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But the creator quickly gave up the act and revealed a conceptual bent to the channel.—
Kieran Press-Reynolds,
Pitchfork,
23 July 2025
Adjective
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Projections of economic gains from major sporting events are typically optimistic, euphoric, chimerical or conjectural.—
Michael Hiltzik,
Los Angeles Times,
19 June 2025
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But the possible consequences of an Iranian nuclear capability are largely conjectural (save for one: nobody would think of invading Iran anymore).—
Barry R. Posen,
Foreign Affairs,
7 Sep. 2010
Adjective
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In a world where professional development often feels abstract, especially in hybrid environments, business travel offers something tangible: face time, proximity, and momentum.—
Julian Hayes II,
Forbes.com,
1 Aug. 2025
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For many families, especially those navigating corn allergies, these policy choices aren't abstract.—
Brett Kittredge,
MSNBC Newsweek,
31 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Theoretical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/theoretical. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.
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