Theoretic: meaning, definitions and examples

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theoretic

[ˌθɪəˈrɛtɪk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in science

Based on or calculated through theory rather than experience or practice.

Synonyms

abstract, conceptual, theoretical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
theoretic	Used when discussing ideas based on theory rather than practice, often in academic or scientific settings. Theoretic knowledge is important for understanding the fundamental principles of physics. His theoretic approach to the problem was insightful but needed practical verification.
theoretical	Common in both academic discussions and everyday language when talking about ideas that are speculative or based on theory rather than practice. Theoretical physics examines the fundamental nature of the universe. In a theoretical scenario, humans might one day colonize Mars.
abstract	Used when referring to ideas or concepts that are not concrete or tangible; often used in art, literature, and philosophy. Her paintings are highly abstract, focusing on emotions rather than realistic depictions. The concept of infinity is quite abstract and difficult to fully grasp.
conceptual	Used when referring to ideas at a high level, often in the early stages of planning or in discussions about the essence of an idea. The conceptual design of the new device was promising, but it needed further development. In a conceptual framework, the focus is on the basic ideas and interrelations between them.

Examples of usage

The theoretic model was widely accepted by the scientific community.
In physics, theoretic calculations often precede experimental verification.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

philosophy

One who is engaged in the theoretical department of learning; a theorist.

Synonyms

academic, scholar, theorist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
theoretic	Used to describe something that is abstract or based on theory rather than practical application. His ideas were very theoretic and had little practical use
theorist	Used to describe a person who develops ideas and theories, often abstract, and usually in scientific, academic, or artistic fields. She is a prominent theorist in cognitive science. Theorists have proposed several explanations for this phenomenon.
academic	Often used to describe something related to education, schools, universities, or scholarly activities. Can also imply something that is scholarly but not connected to practical experiences. She pursued an academic career, publishing numerous research papers. The debate was academic, with no real-world implications.
scholar	Refers to a person who is highly educated or has an expert level of knowledge in a specific field, often involved in academic or research activities. He is a renowned scholar in the field of medieval history. The conference attracted scholars from around the world.

Examples of usage

The theoretic presented a new approach to the problem.
The panel of theoreticians discussed various philosophies.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'theoretic' comes from the Greek word 'theoria,' meaning 'contemplation' or 'speculation.'
It entered the English language in the late 14th century, evolving in meaning over time to include abstract reasoning.
Related words like 'theory' and 'theorize' share the same Greek root, reflecting their connection to thought processes.

Philosophy

Theoretical frameworks provide the basis for scientific models, allowing researchers to predict outcomes based on abstract principles.
Philosophers often distinguish between empiricism (knowledge through experience) and theorization (developing ideas without direct observation).
In ethics, theoretical discussions help debate what should be done in various moral situations, influencing real-world laws and policies.

Science

In science, theoretical physics explores concepts that go beyond the observable, like string theory or quantum mechanics.
Mathematics, often seen as a theoretical discipline, helps explain complex phenomena such as the universe's shape or the behavior of particles.
Theoretical biology studies the underlying principles that govern living systems, helping to predict biological processes without direct experimentation.

Literature

In literary criticism, theoretical approaches (like feminist or post-colonial theory) provide lenses through which to interpret texts differently.
Theoretical frameworks in literature can impact storytelling, as authors often play with narrative structure or perspective based on abstract ideas.
Postmodern literature frequently challenges traditional forms, drawing on theoretical concepts about reality and perception.

Education

Theoretical knowledge is essential in academic settings, providing foundational ideas that inform practical skills and real-world applications.
Educators often blend theoretical and practical methods in teaching, helping students understand how ideas translate into action.
Constructivist theory suggests that learners build knowledge through experiences, highlighting the importance of applying theoretical ideas in real life.

Translations

Translations of the word "theoretic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 teórico

🇮🇳 सैद्धांतिक

🇩🇪 theoretisch

🇮🇩 teoretis

🇺🇦 теоретичний

🇵🇱 teoretyczny

🇯🇵 理論的 (りろんてき)

🇫🇷 théorique

🇪🇸 teórico

🇹🇷 teorik

🇰🇷 이론적인 (i-ron-jeog-in)

🇸🇦 نظري

🇨🇿 teoretický

🇸🇰 teoretický

🇨🇳 理论的 (lǐlùnde)

🇸🇮 teoretičen

🇮🇸 fræðilegur

🇰🇿 теориялық

🇬🇪 თეორიული (teoriuli)

🇦🇿 nəzəri

🇲🇽 teórico

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,642, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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16639 surfacing
16640 tiled
16641 wronged
16642 theoretic
16643 tenacious
16644 mended
16645 haulage
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