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
Big policy agenda items that are critical to some Republicans in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act could in theory be slashed out by the parliamentarian, so the process matters.
—
Allison Pecorin, ABC News, 3 June 2025
Steel tariffs, in theory, can even the global playing field on price.
—Matthew J. Belvedere, CNBC, 2 June 2025
So in theory, liquid detergent pods with no coating would leave your clothes feeling cleaner and make your bottle last longer.
—Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 June 2025
In short, exosomes are promising in theory, mysterious in practice, and poorly regulated in reality.
—Boutayna Chokrane, Wired News, 30 May 2025
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Allison Pecorin, ABC News, 3 June 2025
Steel tariffs, in theory, can even the global playing field on price.
—Matthew J. Belvedere, CNBC, 2 June 2025
So in theory, liquid detergent pods with no coating would leave your clothes feeling cleaner and make your bottle last longer.
—Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 June 2025
In short, exosomes are promising in theory, mysterious in practice, and poorly regulated in reality.
—Boutayna Chokrane, Wired News, 30 May 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 7 Jun. 2025.
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