theoretical Definition
- 1relating to or based on a theory, hypothesis, or abstract reasoning
- 2not practical or applied; hypothetical
Using theoretical: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "theoretical" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The theoretical basis for the research was sound.
Example
The experiment was purely theoretical and had no practical application.
Example
The theoretical physicist proposed a new model of the universe.
Example
The course covered both theoretical and practical aspects of computer programming.
theoretical Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for theoretical
Phrases with theoretical
a set of concepts, assumptions, and expectations that form a way of understanding and interpreting phenomena in a particular field of study
Example
The theoretical framework of the research was based on the principles of cognitive psychology.
the branch of physics that deals with the development of theories to explain the behavior of matter and energy in the universe
Example
Theoretical physics has led to many groundbreaking discoveries in the field of science.
theoretical knowledge
knowledge that is based on theory rather than practical experience
Example
Theoretical knowledge is important, but it must be supplemented with practical skills to be useful in the real world.
Origins of theoretical
from Late Latin 'theoreticus', from Greek 'theōrētikos', from 'theōrein', meaning 'to look at'
Summary: theoretical in Brief
The term 'theoretical' [ˌθiːəˈretɪkl] refers to concepts, ideas, or hypotheses that are not yet proven or applied in practice. It is often used in academic or scientific contexts, such as 'theoretical physics' or 'theoretical framework.' 'Theoretical' is the opposite of 'practical' or 'applied,' and is sometimes shortened to 'theo' in informal settings.