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
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.
Learn in practice, not in theory One thing is abundantly clear: employees want upskilling. Aytekin Tank, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 The Infinite Monkey Theorem hypothesizes that, given a typewriter and an infinite amount of time, a monkey could in theory produce the full works of William Shakespeare. David Hodari, NBC News, 1 Nov. 2024 Integrating pharmacists more tightly with clinical prescribing should, in theory, cut costs and improve outcomes — but the formula has proved tricky, Van Antwerp says. Claire Rychlewski, Axios, 4 Nov. 2024 Choosing these moves seems like the obvious choice, in theory, but boss fights require careful assessment before committing to any strategy. Josh Broadwell, Rolling Stone, 4 Nov. 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 28 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!