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
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
Asus has repositioned the face buttons and control sticks, putting them (in theory) in more comfortable and natural places for your thumbs.
—Matthew Buzzi, PCMAG, 2 Nov. 2024
In its first wave, two main technologic innovations bolstered the number of creators: The multiplication of open access distribution channels such as social media platforms, Discord, and newsletters allowed users to distribute their work, in theory, to millions of potential viewers.
—Ruby Justice Thelot, ARTnews.com, 1 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for in theory 
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of
Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback
about these examples.
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
Asus has repositioned the face buttons and control sticks, putting them (in theory) in more comfortable and natural places for your thumbs.
—Matthew Buzzi, PCMAG, 2 Nov. 2024
In its first wave, two main technologic innovations bolstered the number of creators: The multiplication of open access distribution channels such as social media platforms, Discord, and newsletters allowed users to distribute their work, in theory, to millions of potential viewers.
—Ruby Justice Thelot, ARTnews.com, 1 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for in theory
Dictionary Entries Near in theory
Cite this Entry
“In theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20theory. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share