theoretical
the·o·ret·i·cal
adj \ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-kəl, ˌthir-ˈe-\Definition of THEORETICAL
1
a : relating to or having the character of theory : abstract b : confined to theory or speculation often in contrast to practical applications : speculative <theoretical physics>
2
: given to or skilled in theorizing <a brilliant theoretical physicist>
3
: existing only in theory : hypothetical <gave as an example a theoretical situation>
See Variants of THEORETICAL
the·o·ret·i·cal also the·o·ret·ic \-tik\
Examples of THEORETICAL
- On a theoretical level, hiring more people seems logical.
- The idea is purely theoretical at this point.
- The danger is more than just a theoretical possibility.
Origin of THEORETICAL
Late Latin theoreticus, from Greek theōrētikos, from theōrein to look at
First Known Use: 1601
Related to THEORETICAL
Related Words: alleged, assumed, presumed, presupposed, proposed, supposed, unproved, unproven, untested; debatable, moot; abstract, conceptual, intellectual, metaphysical; nonclinical, nonpractical; nonempirical
Near Antonyms: clinical, practical; concrete, defined, definite, distinct; attested, authenticated, confirmed, demonstrated, established, proven, substantiated, tested, time-tested, validated, verified; empirical (also empiric), nonspeculative, nontheoretical, observational
Rhymes with THEORETICAL
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