theoretically

Word family  noun theorist theory theorem theoretician adjective theoretical verb theorize adverb theoretically

 Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English 5++朗文当代英语 5++LDOCE 5++朗文 5++

Related topics: Hard science

theo·ret·i·cally /θɪəˈretɪkli $ ˌθiːə-/ ●○○ AWL adverb [sentence adverb]  1  SHOULD/OUGHT TOused to say what is supposed to be true in a particular situation, especially when the opposite is true 按理说，按道理讲 OPP in practice Theoretically, Damian’s the boss, but I coordinate the team on a day-to-day basis. 按理说达米安是老板，但全队日常的协调工作是由我来做的。2  HIDEAaccording to a scientific idea that has not been proven to be true in a practical way 在理论上，从理论上说 SYN hypothetically It is theoretically possible for computers to be programmed to think like humans. 对电脑进行编程，使它像人一样思考，这在理论上是可能的。

Examples from the Corpus

theoretically• But apart from these largely empirical objections, the argument is flawed theoretically.• One way to answer this question is to consider it theoretically.• Though family planning services are theoretically available to them, they are not even contemplated at such an early age.• Furthermore, the investments necessary to make an airline work could, theoretically, drag Virgin to bankruptcy.• Although satellite dishes for television are theoretically illegal, the Damascus skyline reveals them on almost every rooftop.• It is theoretically possible that this activity could trigger an eruption, but highly unlikely, he said.• It is theoretically possible to identify a person from just one tooth if the tooth is unusual.• Well, yes, theoretically, says the Home Office.• Theoretically, the department exists to help people, but it often seems otherwise.• And, theoretically, they could see their role and benefit in making that happen.

theo·ret·i·cally adverbChineseSyllable  

Corpus what is to supposed true say be to used

theoretically
theo‧ret‧i‧cally AC /θɪəˈretɪkli $ ˌθiːə-/ adverb [sentence adverb]1. used to say what is supposed to be true in a particular situation, especially when the opposite is true
   OPP  in practice:
    Theoretically, Damian’s the boss, but I coordinate the team on a day-to-day basis.
2. according to a scientific idea that has not been proven to be true in a practical way
   SYN  hypothetically:
    It is theoretically possible for computers to be programmed to think like humans.