but theoretically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but theoretically" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a concept or idea that is based on theory rather than practical application or reality. Example: "The solution may seem effective, but theoretically, it could lead to unforeseen complications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But, theoretically, twelve months is better than seven months".

The New Yorker

Here's a nightmare example, unlikely but theoretically possible.

The New Yorker

But theoretically, he said, "any substantial stockholder can stir things up".

The New York Times

But theoretically insurance businesses would be able to tweak prices to reflect risk more closely.

The Guardian - Money

But theoretically, if it were a belief system like a religion, who would be its messiah?

The Guardian

The program was placed in a congressionally created but theoretically independent corp.

The New Yorker

But theoretically, you have an approach about how you're spending your bullets.

The New York Times

Some companies have social enterprise subsidiaries operating in Scotland but, theoretically, no money is taken in profit.

The Guardian

Relationships that profess to be real, trusting and intimate are hard work, often messy, but theoretically worth it.

The New York Times

"You cannot choose, they're all good teams with quality, but theoretically you don't want to play against Manchester or Barcelona".

The Guardian - Sport

But, theoretically, you could have prizes that separated "Louie -like, "Transparent"-esque "traumedy" from O.G. muLouie -likework siTransparent -esque

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but theoretically" to introduce a contrasting viewpoint that holds true in theory, even if it might not always apply in practice. This helps to acknowledge potential limitations or complexities.

Common error

Avoid using "but theoretically" to justify unrealistic or impractical suggestions. Ensure that the theoretical possibility has at least some grounding in reality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but theoretically" functions as a discourse marker introducing a contrast between a practical reality and a theoretical possibility or expectation. According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English, often serving as a concessive conjunction to acknowledge an opposing viewpoint that exists in theory.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but theoretically" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce a theoretical possibility that contrasts with practical reality. As Ludwig AI states, it is usable in written English and often functions as a concessive conjunction. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Science", "but theoretically" serves to qualify statements, acknowledge limitations, and introduce speculative elements. To improve your writing, use it to acknowledge potential complexities and theoretical nuances, and avoid using it to justify unrealistic suggestions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in theory

Shorter and more direct, focusing solely on the theoretical aspect.

from a purely theoretical standpoint

Adds emphasis by specifying the theoretical perspective.

hypothetically speaking

Emphasizes the conditional and speculative nature of the statement.

on paper

Highlights a discrepancy between theoretical plans and real-world outcomes.

as a thought experiment

Positions the statement as part of a mental exercise or exploration of possibilities.

in an ideal world

Highlights the difference between the theoretical idea and the real-world limitations

conceptually

Focuses on the conceptual validity rather than practical feasibility.

assuming all conditions are perfect

Explicitly states the ideal conditions necessary for the theoretical outcome.

given the right circumstances

Similar to the above, but slightly less rigid and more open to unpredictable factors.

for all intents and purposes

It indicates that a statement is true in most, but not all, respects or circumstances.

FAQs

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

"But theoretically" is typically used to introduce a contrasting point that is true in theory but might not be in practice. For instance, "The plan seems foolproof, "but theoretically", unforeseen issues could arise."

What phrases are similar to "but theoretically"?

Similar phrases include "in theory", "hypothetically speaking", and "on paper". The best alternative depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "but theoretically" interchangeable with "in practice"?

No, "but theoretically" is not interchangeable with "in practice". "But theoretically" introduces an idea that is valid in theory, while "in practice" refers to how something actually works in real-world situations. They often represent contrasting viewpoints.

What is the difference between "but theoretically" and "but potentially"?

"But theoretically" emphasizes a possibility based on theoretical principles, whereas "but potentially" ("but potentially") suggests a possibility that might occur depending on circumstances. The former is rooted in theory, while the latter focuses on realistic possibilities.