French word

théoriquement

Pronunciation

IPA/teoʁikəmɑ̃/

Meaning

  • adverbtheoretically

Example

Théoriquement, tu devrais recevoir le colis demain.

Theoretically, you should receive the package tomorrow.

Illustration for théoriquement (theoretically)

More examples

Le projet est théoriquement réalisable, mais il manque des ressources.

The project is theoretically possible, but it lacks resources.

Core concept

A rulebook answer that works on paper while real conditions may disrupt it.

Common phrases

  • théoriquement possible

    theoretically possible

  • théoriquement parlant

    theoretically speaking

  • théoriquement correct

    theoretically correct

Similar words

en principe: Expected to be true under basic principles or general rules.
en théorie: Supported by theory or a particular way of thinking.
a priori: Inferred in advance from prior information or assumptions.
apparemment: Apparently true based on appearances or information received.

Definition in French

Exprime qu'une situation est correcte d'un point de vue théorique, d'après une loi ou un plan, mais pas forcément en pratique.

Word origin

French théoriquement is formed from théorique with the adverbial suffix -ment; théorique traces back to Latin theoricus.

Usage tips

  • Théoriquement often signals a contrast with practice, so it can sound like a reservation rather than a simple statement of theory.

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word