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
The calculation, in theory, frees analysts from the ambiguity of some potentially misleading factors (like population) and allows for easy comparisons across counties, states, and countries.
—
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 July 2025
As the Times notes, Columbia’s admissions program at the time was race-conscious, and Mamdani in theory could have gained an advantage by identifying himself as Black.
—Ali Breland, The Atlantic, 9 July 2025
By naming a new chair well before that, the nominee could in theory jawbone markets into easing financial conditions, such as lowering bond yields, before taking office and undermine Powell’s messaging in his final months.
—Alicia Adamczyk, Fortune, 28 June 2025
This could, in theory, help enhance workout performance by increasing energy levels.3
While some studies suggest potential benefits from a cold plunge before your workout, further research is needed to confirm whether this practice is truly beneficial.
—Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 26 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for in theory
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Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 July 2025
As the Times notes, Columbia’s admissions program at the time was race-conscious, and Mamdani in theory could have gained an advantage by identifying himself as Black.
—Ali Breland, The Atlantic, 9 July 2025
By naming a new chair well before that, the nominee could in theory jawbone markets into easing financial conditions, such as lowering bond yields, before taking office and undermine Powell’s messaging in his final months.
—Alicia Adamczyk, Fortune, 28 June 2025
This could, in theory, help enhance workout performance by increasing energy levels.3
While some studies suggest potential benefits from a cold plunge before your workout, further research is needed to confirm whether this practice is truly beneficial.
—Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 26 June 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 20 Jul. 2025.
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