in theory

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.

It’s easy enough in theory to fall back on the principle, “well, too bad — let this be a lesson to you!”

From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026

That set-up, in theory, should support shoppers’ splurging more on things they want, but you would never guess that from consumer stocks.

From Barron's • May 12, 2026

AGI, in theory, could reach a stage of recursive self-improvement that results in a loss of human understanding or control.

From Los Angeles Times • May 11, 2026

In one, they examined whether diners were less likely to tip after attending church on Sunday—where, in theory, they had spent money on a donation.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 9, 2026

This idea, consolatory in theory, I felt would be terrible if realised: with all my might I endeavoured to stifle it—I endeavoured to be firm.

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë