at least theoretically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'at least theoretically' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is true based on assumptions or logical conclusions, even though it may not be true in actual practice. For example, you could say "At least theoretically, exercise should help reduce stress levels."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At least theoretically.

The New York Times - Sports

Empanadas are available daily, at least theoretically.

The New York Times - Food

Or at least theoretically it does.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Discharging ground-up matter into wastewater can, at least theoretically, overtax antiquated sewage systems.

The New York Times

The huge reservoirs of oil in the ground seem to make it at least theoretically possible.

The New Yorker

I would say the sky's the limit, at least theoretically speaking".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And for the population, most medical care is still free, at least theoretically.

The New York Times

In the summertime, we are free to frolic in lighter, skimpier clothing – at least theoretically.

The Guardian - Opinion

Children of five and above receive – at least theoretically – their midday meal at school.

The Guardian

China has obvious reasons — at least theoretically — to gain from tying nuclear and trade diplomacy together.

The Washington Post

This was not a high crime, but it was — at least theoretically speaking — a misdemeanor.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "at least theoretically" with a clarifying statement that explains the limitations or practical challenges associated with the theory.

Common error

Avoid using "at least theoretically" as a substitute for actual evidence or planning. While it's useful for exploring potential scenarios, ensure you also address the concrete steps needed to move beyond theory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at least theoretically" functions as an adverbial phrase. As seen in Ludwig, it modifies a statement to indicate that it is true in theory, though perhaps not in practice. Ludwig AI validates its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adverbial phrase "at least theoretically" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to qualify statements by indicating their validity is limited to theoretical contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it serves to introduce a degree of skepticism or acknowledge potential real-world limitations. Primarily found in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources, it demonstrates a neutral to formal tone. To enhance your writing, use it to introduce concepts that hold true in ideal situations while acknowledging practical challenges. Avoid assuming theoretical possibility equates to practical feasibility, and ensure you provide a balanced perspective by addressing concrete steps beyond theory. The phrase has various semantic alternatives that allow to express subtle meaning differences depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at least conceivably

Emphasizes the possibility of something being imagined or understood.

at least hypothetically

Focuses on a scenario presented as a hypothesis or for the sake of argument.

in principle

Highlights the adherence to a certain rule or law regardless of its practical applications.

nominally

Points out that something is so in name only, and not in reality.

at least ostensibly

Highlights an apparent reason or justification, which may or may not be the real one.

for all practical purposes

Indicates that a situation exists in effect, though not necessarily in fact.

on paper

Expresses that something is true according to official records, but perhaps not in reality.

at face value

Expresses that something is true without further inspection.

in a perfect world

Describes an ideal situation that rarely exists in reality.

under ideal conditions

Suggests an outcome achievable if everything goes as expected.

FAQs

How can I use "at least theoretically" in a sentence?

Use "at least theoretically" to introduce a concept or possibility that holds true under ideal conditions but might not in practice. For example, "At least theoretically, a balanced diet should provide all the necessary nutrients."

What phrases are similar to "at least theoretically"?

Similar phrases include "at least conceivably", "at least hypothetically", or "in principle". These all suggest something is possible or true under certain assumptions.

Is it redundant to say "at least theoretically possible"?

While "theoretically possible" already implies a degree of uncertainty, adding "at least" can further emphasize the hypothetical nature, suggesting that even the theoretical possibility might be limited or questionable.

When is it appropriate to use "at least theoretically" in formal writing?

It's appropriate in formal writing when you want to acknowledge the theoretical basis of an idea while also hinting at potential real-world limitations or complexities. It's useful for presenting a balanced view.