Synonyms for

Theoretical

Verb / ˌθi:ɜ:ˈetɪkʌl / Another word for theoretical — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to or based on a theory, abstract or hypothetical rather than actual or empirical.

Synonyms & similar words

empirical theoretic applied hypothetical abstract notional conceptual intellectual academic speculative unproven suppositional untested conjectural fanciful ideational imaginative philosophical putative suppositious suppositive tentative theoretic

Synonyms by register

Formal

hypothetical speculative abstract postulated

Informal

supposed imaginary made-up in theory

Literary

ethereal phantasmal

Antonyms

practical actual real applied empirical tangible concrete

Common collocations

  • theoretical framework
  • theoretical basis
  • theoretical model
  • theoretical knowledge
  • theoretical physics
  • theoretical possibility
  • theoretical debate

Word family

noun theory
adverb theoretically

Usage note

Often contrasted with 'practical' or 'applied', 'theoretical' refers to ideas or concepts that exist in theory but may not have been proven or implemented in reality. Be careful not to confuse it with 'theoretic', which is an older or less common form.

Example sentences

  1. Theoretical physics is a field that deals with abstract concepts and mathematical models.
  2. The theoretical maximum speed of light is 299,792,458 meters per second.
  3. Theoretical knowledge is important, but practical experience is also necessary.
  4. The theoretical framework of the study was based on previous research.
  5. Theoretical concepts can sometimes be difficult to understand.

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