theoretically

adverb

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal·​ly ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce theoretically (audio)
ˌthir-ˈe-ti-
1
: according to an ideal or assumed set of facts or principles : in theory
2
: in a theoretical way

Examples of theoretically 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.
In 1994, Peter Shor introduced an algorithm that could theoretically break RSA encryption, demonstrating quantum computing’s transformative potential. Yuval Boger, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 What to watch: The strike could theoretically end before Election Day, if management and the guild agree to a new contract, although that seems unlikely. Sara Fischer, Axios, 4 Nov. 2024 This means a shot from that older bottle of NyQuil could theoretically be stronger than it’s supposed to be. Keren Landman, Vox, 4 Nov. 2024 From that point of view, Mishima’s work is, at least theoretically, amenable to translation in a way that, for example, the Nobel Laureate Kenzaburo Oe’s is not. Deborah Treisman, The New Yorker, 27 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for theoretically 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1626, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of theoretically was circa 1626

Dictionary Entries Near theoretically

Cite this Entry

“Theoretically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretically. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

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