theoretically adv 1: in theory; according to the assumed facts; "on paper the candidate seems promising" 2: in a theoretical manner; "he worked the problem out theoretically" [ant: {by trial and error}, {empirically}, {through empirical observation}]
Theoretic \The`o*ret"ic\, Theoretical \The`o*ret"ic*al\, a. [Gr. ?: cf. L. theoreticus, F. th['e]or['e]tique.] Pertaining to theory; depending on, or confined to, theory or speculation; speculative; terminating in theory or speculation: not practical; as, theoretical learning; theoretic sciences. -- {The`o*ret"ic*al*ly}, adv. [1913 Webster]