in theory

adverb

with regard to fundamentals although not concerning details

-

in principle, we agree

• Syn: ↑in principle, ↑in essence

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IN PRINCIPLE, on paper, in the abstract, all things being equal, in an ideal world; hypothetically.

→ theory

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in theory phrase

used for saying that something is believed to be true, although it may not be true

In theory, anything could happen.

Thesaurus: ways of saying that something is not definitely true_synonym

Main entry: theory

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used in describing what is supposed to happen or be possible, usually with the implication that it does not in fact happen

in theory, things can only get better; in practice, they may well become a lot worse

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in theory

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.

• • •

Main Entry: ↑theory

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in ˈtheory idiom

used to say that a particular statement is supposed to be true but may in fact be wrong

•

In theory, these machines should last for ten years or more.

•

That sounds fine in theory, but have you really thought it through?

•

‘Aren't you supposed to be retired?’ ‘Yes, in theory.’

Main entry: ↑theory_idiom