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
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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
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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
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“In theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20theory. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
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