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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This differs from the previous Rwanda scheme insofar as the latter involved people (in theory) having their applications for asylum processed abroad, while the former will be used (in theory) only for people who have already been rejected.
—
Frey Lindsay, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
This generates harmful compounds that could, in theory, drive chronic disease.
—Matt Fuchs, TIME, 21 Mar. 2025
There are multiple ways to die by black holes – at least, in theory.
—Madison Dapcevich, Discover Magazine, 21 Mar. 2025
Musk now leads the Department of Government Efficiency, which prioritizes cost-cutting and may be popular in theory but facing pushback.
—William Gavin, Quartz, 20 Mar. 2025
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Frey Lindsay, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
This generates harmful compounds that could, in theory, drive chronic disease.
—Matt Fuchs, TIME, 21 Mar. 2025
There are multiple ways to die by black holes – at least, in theory.
—Madison Dapcevich, Discover Magazine, 21 Mar. 2025
Musk now leads the Department of Government Efficiency, which prioritizes cost-cutting and may be popular in theory but facing pushback.
—William Gavin, Quartz, 20 Mar. 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 31 Mar. 2025.
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