Definitions

theoretical

[thee-uh-ret-i-kuhl] / ˌθi əˈrɛt ɪ kəl /

ADJECTIVE

hypothetical

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abstract academic analytical imaginative intellectual logical metaphysical philosophical speculative vague

WEAK

as a premise assumed codified conjectural contingent formalistic formularized general ideal idealized ideational ideological impractical in the abstract in theory instanced notional on paper pedantic postulated presumed problematical pure quixotic suppositional tentative transcendent transcendental unearthly unproved unsubstantiated

Antonyms

STRONGEST

concrete ignorant illogical material objective physical real simple

WEAK

certain definite factual proven

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When approached for comment, a Meta spokesperson dismissed the report as “speculative reporting about theoretical approaches.”

From Barron's

We are all fated to die, but for most people Mr. Sasse’s age death is distant, even theoretical.

From The Wall Street Journal

Because of this, scientists rely heavily on theoretical models, which must be tested and refined using laboratory data.

From Science Daily

The team performed a Bayesian analysis that compared thousands of theoretical models with the actual gravitational wave signal.

From Science Daily

There are solid theoretical reasons why such stocks are intelligent bets during geopolitical crises.

From MarketWatch