hypothetically

[ hahy-puh-thet-i-klee ]

adverb

1. according to what is assumed as a premise in an argument:

   Hypothetically, without friction or other resistance a toy car on a track could cruise along indefinitely, provided it never went higher than its starting point.

2. in a way that is theoretically possible but not proven; conjecturally; speculatively:

   Hypothetically, these nanobots would be able to traverse any type of terrain and would therefore be ideal for exploration missions on other planets.

   While hypothetically this could be the case, you appear to have no evidence to support it.

3. according to what is assumed or imagined; supposedly:

   I do legal transcription and hypothetically clean the house while my children are at school.

Other Words From

• un·hy·po·thet·i·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypothetically¹

hypothetical ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Despite a loss in Florida, this would hypothetically ease the pressure on abortion funds by expanding access.

From Salon

The fourth document describes a “January 6 scenario” in which Pence would hypothetically use his position as vice president and the slates of fake electors submitted to ensure that Trump is declared president.

From Salon

Here's how it might play out — hypothetically, of course:

From Salon

In the Begum case it could be, speaking hypothetically, a question about how to balance national security and protections for victims of sexual trafficking.

From BBC

Material could hypothetically be locked into the hypersaline layer once it gets past the interface of the two densities.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• apparently
• doubtless
• probably
• seemingly
• supposedly
• surely