In theory and Likely

In theory

In theory adverb - With regard to fundamentals although not concerning details.

Likely and in theory are semantically related. In some cases you can use "Likely" instead an adverb phrase "In theory".

Likely

Likely adverb - By reasonable assumption.

In theory and likely are semantically related. Sometimes you can use "In theory" instead an adverb "Likely".

Nearby Word: like

Both terms in one sentence

  • It could, in theory, be a very obscure Final Fantasy V reference, but more likely it's just a very funny and ultimately harmless bug.
  • Murphy has this power, in theory, but doesn't have much control over it yet; she's as likely to get dumped on by her powers as anyone (hence her codename).
  • Two-Face is probably one of the most consistent examples, with his need to consult his trademark coin: in theory, the results of the toss are equally as likely to turn up in the hero's favor.
Cite this Source
Likely and In theory. (2016). Retrieved 2026, July 28, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/in_theory/likely
In theory & Likely. N.p., 2016. Web. 28 Jul. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/in_theory/likely>.
Likely or In theory. 2016. Accessed July 28, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/in_theory/likely.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "in theory" and "likely" have occurred on timeline