theoretically
adv. sent. B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌθiɝˈɛtɪkəɫi// UK //θiəɹˈɛtɪkli// the·o·ret·i·cal·ly
adv. used to say that something is possible according to a plan or idea, even if it might not actually happen in real life.
adv. according to a hypothetical or idealised model; in a manner based on theory rather than experience or practice.
The journey should theoretically take three hours.
Theoretically, the new software can handle thousands of users at once, but we need to test it under pressure.
While the plan is theoretically sound, the logistics of transporting such heavy equipment across the desert present significant practical challenges that the initial proposal ignored.
From theoretical + -ly.
Usage
Often used as a sentence adverb at the beginning of a clause to indicate a contrast between theory and reality.