but hypothetically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but hypothetically" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation that is not real or is imagined for the sake of argument or exploration of ideas. Example: "If we were to assume that time travel is possible, but hypothetically, what would be the implications for history?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

But, hypothetically speaking, could such a thing be used to find a skunk ape?

The New Yorker

I mean, there never will be good work, but hypothetically, I'm saying. . . .

The New Yorker

To wit, Ithkuil is not intended to supplant natural languages but (hypothetically) to supplement them in specialized contexts where there is a need for completely precise, unobfuscatory language, such as in science, court testimony, philosophy, and the recounting of history.

The New Yorker

The question was phrased not aggressively but hypothetically, as part of an adoring (if boring) hourlong documentary, which showed him looking youthful as ever, lifting weights, swimming laps at his residence and dismissing his critics with customary zeal.

The New York Times

But hypothetically, if you do, alert a server to retrieve it.

TechCrunch

This is obviously still a long way from becoming policy, but hypothetically if this did happen then it would become a fantastic time to buy.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

He would not disclose his first choice to be a new reliever, but he hypothetically mentioned Maine to make a point.

The New York Times - Sports

He offered those as possible timelines, but only hypothetically, to make his points that terrorism had rendered the region unstable and that he would support a continued troop presence if warranted.

The New York Times

Rather what appears to happen is that in richer countries the survey becomes a hypothetical: "What would I most need were I to wake up in poverty?" But even hypothetically, none of these countries are as concerned with political issues as Iranian respondents are.

The Guardian

But, if, hypothetically, that detainee does have the information at hand, it stands to reason that they also have a pretty firm idea as to how much time is left on that ticking clock.

Huffington Post

But if hypothetically speaking--and I stress the words "if" and "hypothetically" because I wasn't there--Mistress X demanded to be paid "six figures" or else she would publicize their affair--and I'm not saying she did, because again, I wasn't there--that would be a serious problem.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but hypothetically" to introduce a scenario that contrasts with the previously stated information, allowing for exploration of alternative possibilities or outcomes. It's useful for examining potential consequences or solutions that may not be immediately obvious.

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences with "but hypothetically" in formal documents. While useful for thought experiments, overuse can make writing seem speculative or lacking in confidence. Instead, vary sentence structure and use more direct language where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but hypothetically" functions as a transitional phrase to introduce a hypothetical or speculative element following a previous statement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but hypothetically" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce speculative scenarios or counterfactual arguments, according to Ludwig AI. It's most commonly found in news and media as well as scientific contexts. While useful for exploring alternative possibilities, it should be used judiciously in formal writing to maintain clarity and avoid appearing overly speculative. Consider alternative phrases such as "however theoretically" or "but in theory" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. "But hypothetically" serves as a valuable tool for analytical and creative thought, allowing speakers and writers to explore possibilities beyond the immediately apparent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but in a hypothetical scenario

More explicitly frames the statement as part of an imaginary situation.

however theoretically

Replaces "hypothetically" with "theoretically", focusing on a theoretical possibility, sometimes detached from practical reality.

but in theory

Focuses on a possibility as a concept rather than a likely outcome.

but for the sake of argument

Emphasizes that the statement is made for the purpose of discussion, regardless of actual likelihood.

but if we imagine

Directly invites the listener or reader to consider a particular imagined situation.

yet possibly

Highlights a potential but not necessarily probable scenario.

but assuming

Introduces a condition that may or may not be true.

but conditionally

Suggests that the validity of the statement depends on certain conditions being met.

but given that

States the hypothetical scenario as a premise for further reasoning.

though speculatively

Indicates the statement is based on conjecture rather than solid evidence.

FAQs

How can I use "but hypothetically" in a sentence?

Use "but hypothetically" to introduce a situation that is imagined or assumed for the purpose of discussion or analysis. For example, "The data suggests a decline in sales, but hypothetically, what if we launched a new marketing campaign?"

What does "but hypothetically" mean?

"But hypothetically" means considering a situation that is not necessarily true or real, but is being discussed to explore possibilities or consequences. It implies an element of speculation or conjecture.

Are there any alternatives to using "but hypothetically"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "however theoretically", "but in theory", or "but assuming", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "but hypothetically" and "but theoretically"?

"But hypothetically" introduces a scenario that may not be based on any existing evidence, while "but theoretically" /s/however+theoretically introduces a scenario based on some theoretical framework or model. The former is more speculative, whereas the latter has a basis in established principles.