Theoretical: meaning, definitions and examples

💭

Add to dictionary

theoretical

[ˌθiː.əˈret.ɪ.kəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in academic discussions

existing only in theory and not in practice; hypothetical

Synonyms

abstract, conceptual, hypothetical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
theoretical	Used when discussing ideas or principles that are based on theory rather than on practical application or physical evidence. In theoretical physics, scientists explore concepts beyond observable phenomena
hypothetical	Used when discussing situations, conditions, or statements that are imagined for the sake of argument or exploration, often without evidence. In a hypothetical scenario where time travel is possible, what rules would govern its use?
abstract	Often relates to ideas that are complex and not easily understood because they are detached from concrete realities. Modern art often features abstract designs that challenge traditional forms and expectations
conceptual	Employed when referring to ideas or concepts that are more about mental understanding and frameworks rather than physical existence. Her conceptual approach to problem-solving focuses on understanding the underlying principles

Examples of usage

Theoretical physics deals with the laws of nature at the most fundamental level.
His ideas were purely theoretical and had no practical application.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

related to a particular theory

based on or calculated through theory rather than experience or practice

Synonyms

hypothetical, speculative, theoretic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
theoretical	Used when discussing concepts based on abstract or general principles rather than practical applications. Her approach to solving the problem was purely theoretical. In a theoretical model, we assume ideal conditions.
speculative	Best used when referring to ideas or guesses that are formed without firm evidence, often implying a higher degree of uncertainty. The report is full of speculative projections about the future market. Her comments on the issue are purely speculative and not backed by any data.
hypothetical	Appropriate in situations where discussing situations or conditions that are not real but imagined for the sake of argument or investigation. Let's consider a hypothetical scenario where the company doubles its profits. His hypothesis is based on hypothetical data.
theoretic	An alternative to 'theoretical' but less commonly used; it is mainly found in academic or formal discussions about abstract ideas. The theoretic foundation of the concept remains strong despite practical challenges. They debated the theoretic implications of the new research.

Examples of usage

The theoretical value of the stock price was higher than its actual market value.
The experiment confirmed the theoretical predictions made by the researchers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek word 'theoria', which means contemplation or speculation.
It entered the English language in the 17th century, initially used in philosophical contexts.
Its roots reflect a focus on ideas rather than practical or experimental applications.

Science

In physics, theories provide frameworks to understand the universe, like Einstein's theory of relativity.
Theoretical approaches in biology often lead to hypotheses that require experimentation for validation.
Mathematics heavily relies on theoretical constructs, allowing for abstract reasoning and problem-solving.

Philosophy

Philosophers often discuss the difference between theoretical knowledge and practical knowledge, or 'episteme' vs. 'techne'.
Theoretical frameworks in ethics help define what is considered 'right' and 'wrong' outside specific situations.
In epistemology, the study of knowledge, theorists investigate how we come to know things theoretically versus empirically.

Pop Culture

In popular media, theoretical discussions often appear in sci-fi, exploring possibilities beyond current scientific understanding.
Theoretical debates feature prominently in shows like 'The Big Bang Theory', where nerd culture meets humor and intellect.
Many popular books and films engage with theoretical scenarios, inviting audiences to contemplate 'what if' situations.

Psychology

Psychological theories help us understand human behavior, like Maslow's hierarchy explaining our motivation.
Cognitive theories focus on how we think and perceive the world, influencing therapies and educational strategies.
Behavioral theories apply to learning and conditioning, highlighting the difference between theoretical understanding and practical application.

Translations

Translations of the word "theoretical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 teórico

🇮🇳 सैद्धांतिक

🇩🇪 theoretisch

🇮🇩 teoretis

🇺🇦 теоретичний

🇵🇱 teoretyczny

🇯🇵 理論的 (りろんてき)

🇫🇷 théorique

🇪🇸 teórico

🇹🇷 teorik

🇰🇷 이론적인

🇸🇦 نظري

🇨🇿 teoretický

🇸🇰 teoretický

🇨🇳 理论的 (lǐlùn de)

🇸🇮 teoretičen

🇮🇸 fræðilegur

🇰🇿 теориялық

🇬🇪 თეორიული

🇦🇿 nəzəri

🇲🇽 teórico

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,355, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

...
2352 arise
2353 payable
2354 constitution
2355 theoretical
2356 repair
2357 taste
2358 separation
...