Source : WordNet®

in theory
     adv 1: according to the assumed facts; "on paper the candidate
            seems promising" [syn: {theoretically}, {on paper}]
     2: with regard to fundamentals although not concerning details;
        "in principle, we agree" [syn: {in principle}, {in essence}]
     3: as described in contrast to as practiced; "on paper, this
        looks like a good idea" [syn: {on paper}]