variants
also theoretic
1
as in hypothetical
existing only as an assumption or speculation
the merits of the new testing procedures are purely theoretical, since no one has ever used them before
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in metaphysical
dealing with or expressing a quality or idea
the theoretical musings in his new book are less engaging than the anecdote-driven arguments of his previous works
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of theoretical
Rather than overwhelming employees with excessive theoretical training, prioritize on-the-job learning and real-world projects that equip them to handle challenges effectively.
—
Expert Panel®, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025
And frankly, neither is Denise, who spends another episode auditioning for a theoretical cooking show.
—Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 25 Mar. 2025
For example, the theoretical minimum input lag for a 60Hz refresh rate is approximately 16.67ms.
—PCMAG, 24 Mar. 2025
The San Francisco Giants’ Oracle Park or even the Oakland Coliseum are theoretical options.
—Michael McGough and, Sacramento Bee, 24 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for theoretical
Expert Panel®, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025
And frankly, neither is Denise, who spends another episode auditioning for a theoretical cooking show.
—Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 25 Mar. 2025
For example, the theoretical minimum input lag for a 60Hz refresh rate is approximately 16.67ms.
—PCMAG, 24 Mar. 2025
The San Francisco Giants’ Oracle Park or even the Oakland Coliseum are theoretical options.
—Michael McGough and, Sacramento Bee, 24 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for theoretical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for theoretical
Adjective
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For example, a purely hypothetical deal of Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, Nikola Jovic and two or three first-rounders for Morant and a minimum salary would work within cap rules.—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
2 Apr. 2025
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To be clear: The consumer version of a psychiatric BCI like Inner Cosmos’ Digital Pill may be just as distant or hypothetical as any other BCI.—
Naveen Rao,
Forbes.com,
2 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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In the 19th century, philosophers and poets dabbled with it in the pursuit of metaphysical insights.—
Ella Jeffries,
Smithsonian Magazine,
8 Apr. 2025
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To the north is Vulcan’s Forge, Russell’s custom jewelry operation; to the south is Aquarius, a new-age metaphysical store owned by Barbara.—
David Hudnall,
Kansas City Star,
27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
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These tokens illustrate how speculative assets tied to political figures can generate short-term buzz but carry significant downside for everyday buyers.—
Gordon G. Chang,
MSNBC Newsweek,
8 Apr. 2025
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To date, all changes are speculative in nature and are unlikely to be applied retroactively.—
Cindy McGhee,
Forbes.com,
8 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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The Village of Wilmette’s Appearance Review Commission is expected to conduct a conceptual review of the plan at its April 7 meeting, Braiman said.—
Phil Rockrohr,
Chicago Tribune,
26 Mar. 2025
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Computer chip with Chinese flag, 3d conceptual illustration.—
Evelyn Cheng,
CNBC,
26 Mar. 2025
Adjective
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But the possible consequences of an Iranian nuclear capability are largely conjectural (save for one: nobody would think of invading Iran anymore).—
Barry R. Posen,
Foreign Affairs,
7 Sep. 2010
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That statistic is somewhat conjectural, since the vast majority of rapes in India are apparently not reported.—
Mark Jenkins,
Washington Post,
7 Nov. 2023
Adjective
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The stain-resistant rug features abstract, geometric patterns and varying shades of beige for a neutral, polished look.—
Alicia Geigel,
Southern Living,
28 Mar. 2025
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Effective behavior change campaigns use storytelling to make abstract concepts relatable, turning passive awareness into active participation.—
Jacquelyn LaMar Berney,
Forbes.com,
27 Mar. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Theoretical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/theoretical. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.
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