Applied
Applied adjective - Capable of being put to use or account.
Usage example: used some applied psychology to get the teenager to become more responsible
Theoretical is an antonym for applied.
Theoretical
Theoretical adjective - Concerned with theories rather than their practical applications.
Usage example: theoretical physics
Both words in one sentence
- Young Stein asks them if they are more interested in theoretical or applied physics.
Source: Double Entendre / Live-Action TV -
While she's not an accredited scientist, her big brain allows Seven Of Nine to function as Voyager's resident theoretical and applied physicist.
Source: Hot Scientist - That's why any self-respecting practitioner of theoretical or applied science, mathematician or philosopher will refuse to study samples, examine specimens or patients, look through a microscope, make calculations or even read - in silence.
Source: Sounds of Science
Cite this Source
Theoretical and Applied. (2016). Retrieved 2026, August 16, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/applied/theoretical
Applied & Theoretical. N.p., 2016. Web. 16 Aug. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/applied/theoretical>.
Theoretical or Applied. 2016. Accessed August 16, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/applied/theoretical.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "applied" and "theoretical" have occurred on timeline