Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for theoretical. Search instead for theoretica.
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.

“That’s no longer a theoretical thing,” Altman said.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 11, 2026

To understand what was happening, Nevidomskyy created a theoretical model that could explain the observations without depending heavily on uncertain microscopic details.

From Science Daily • Apr. 10, 2026

In that theoretical promised land, the objective would be to care deeply about the people and issues that are worth our attention, not about stuff that doesn’t matter.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

Those experiences made clear how rapidly theoretical arguments about constitutional structure can reshape the mechanics of elections.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

“Nothing theoretical about it, young man,” said Wednesday.

From "American Gods" by Neil Gaiman

Vocabulary lists containing theoretical

Albert Einstein

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Unit 2: Pivotal Words and Phrases

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Unit 2: Pivotal Words and Phrases

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!