theoretical

word

/ˌθiɝˈɛtɪkəɫ/
/θiəɹˈɛtɪkəl/

Definition

Related to ideas, principles, or explanations rather than actual events or practical use. It describes something based on theory, not proven or tested in real life.

Usage & Nuances

"Theoretical" is often contrasted with "practical"; it is mainly used in academic, scientific, or technical contexts. Common phrases: "theoretical knowledge", "theoretical model", "theoretical physics". Sometimes suggests something may not work in practice.

Example Sentences

This is just a theoretical idea, not a real plan.

basic

He has a lot of theoretical knowledge about chemistry.

basic

The theoretical model explains how the system should work.

basic

In theoretical physics, not every calculation can be tested in the real world.

natural

It sounds great in a theoretical sense, but can we actually do it?

natural

That’s all theoretical until we see how it works in real life.

natural