Theoretical
ˌθɪəˈretɪkəl
Definitions
Relating to or based on ideas rather than experience or practice.
ˌθɪəˈretɪkəl
Based on or existing in theory; not based on practical experience.
The project's success was only a theoretical possibility.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a cool idea for a robot, but it's just a drawing on paper right now. That's a theoretical robot! It hasn't been built yet, but it *could* work.
👶 For kids: It's like an idea that is possible, but hasn't happened for real yet.
More Examples
The scientist developed a theoretical model to explain the phenomenon.
He had a theoretical understanding of the problem but lacked practical experience.
How It's Used
"Theoretical physics deals with mathematical models and abstract concepts."
"The marketing plan remained theoretical until the funding was approved."
"She debated the philosophical implications of a theoretical framework."
Synonyms
From Late Latin *theoreticus*, from Greek *theōrētikos* 'contemplative, speculative,' from *theōrein* 'to look at, contemplate, speculate.' The word's development reflects a shift from observation and contemplation to abstract thought.
Appeared in the 17th century to describe knowledge based on speculation.
Memory tip
Think of a "theory" as a basis - this adjective describes something that's all based on those theoretical ideas.