theoretisch
Translation
theoretical
Examples
Er erklärte den theoretischen Hintergrund.
He explained the theoretical background.
Wir arbeiten an einem theoretischen Modell.
We are working on a theoretical model.
Grammar Patterns
((as an attribute)) used before a noun Er erklärte den theoretischen Hintergrund.
((as a predicate)) used after a verb like 'sein' Die Idee ist rein theoretisch.
Similar Words
Synonyms: abstrakt (abstract), hypothetisch (hypothetical); Antonyms: praktisch (practical), empirisch (empirical)
Etymology
From Greek 'theōria' (contemplation, speculation). Directly related to the English word 'theory'.
Memory Tips
Think 'theory-tisch'. It's something that exists in theory, like ideas on a table ('Tisch'), but not yet in practice.