Words / B2

theer-RET-ikl/ˌθɪəˈretɪkl/

Theoretical means based on ideas and models rather than practice: theoretical physics; a theoretical risk; in theoretical terms. Practical is a common opposite; empirical means based on data. Theory is the noun. Do not dismiss all theoretical work as useless in an essay — show you know the contrast.

Meaning

Based on ideas and models rather than practical experience; also existing only in theory.

Examples

• “The saving is theoretical until the pilot is evaluated.”
• “The module is more theoretical than the placement year.”

Good to know

theoretical + noun; in theoretical terms. Opposite: practical. Data-based: empirical. Noun: theory. Flag “theoretical” when results are not yet tested.

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