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

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

Hypothetically, Ohtani could throw full-intensity at-bats against hitters in live BPs the afternoon of a playoff game, then have to turn around and serve as the Dodgers’ leadoff hitter later that night.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump's running mate, Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, likewise said in a call with reporters that "everything is going to be on the table," but also “nothing is going to be definitely on the table” in peace talks hypothetically facilitated by a second Trump administration.

From Salon

Well, depends on who you ask — hypothetically, it’s meant for course-correction and honoring restorative justice.

From Slate

Hypothetically, had we not heated the globe to its current state, the number of unusually warm days would have been far fewer, the scientists estimated, using mathematical modeling of the global climate.

From New York Times

Related Words

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