theoretical

1. ADJ A theoretical study or explanation is based on or uses the ideas and abstract principles that relate to a particular subject, rather than the practical aspects or uses of it. 理论的

...theoretical physics. …理论物理。

2. ADJ If you describe a situation as a theoretical one, you mean that although it is supposed to be true or to exist in the way stated, it may not in fact be true or exist in that way. 理论上的

This is certainly a theoretical risk but in practice there is seldom a problem. 这在理论上肯定有风险，但在实践中却很少出问题。