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
Forest would, in theory, need to add more strength and depth to their squad, which might go against Nuno’s historic desire to operate with a small, compact group, where team spirit and unity are easier to preserve.
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Paul Taylor, New York Times, 5 Apr. 2025
Minor risks include: • Algorithmic Speed-Ups: Grover’s algorithm, a novel quantum algorithm, could, in theory, halve SHA-256’s security strength, though 128-bit security remains strong.
—Yuval Boger, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Special elections, used by half the states, are the best reform … in theory.
—Bob Marshall, Denver Post, 4 Apr. 2025
The plaintiffs, which included the Alpha Psi Chapter of the Theta Chi Fraternity, alleged that the matter was not moot because the university had refused to disavow the order and could, in theory, bring it back.
—Dan Belson, Baltimore Sun, 3 Apr. 2025
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Paul Taylor, New York Times, 5 Apr. 2025
Minor risks include: • Algorithmic Speed-Ups: Grover’s algorithm, a novel quantum algorithm, could, in theory, halve SHA-256’s security strength, though 128-bit security remains strong.
—Yuval Boger, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Special elections, used by half the states, are the best reform … in theory.
—Bob Marshall, Denver Post, 4 Apr. 2025
The plaintiffs, which included the Alpha Psi Chapter of the Theta Chi Fraternity, alleged that the matter was not moot because the university had refused to disavow the order and could, in theory, bring it back.
—Dan Belson, Baltimore Sun, 3 Apr. 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 16 Apr. 2025.
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