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rein theoretisch

purely theoretically; in theory

adverb RAIN tay-o-RAY-tish Rare
Communication Expressions

Also means

hypothetically speaking

Usage Note

Rein theoretisch introduces a hypothetical scenario or highlights the gap between theory and practice: Rein theoretisch wäre das möglich ('In theory that would be possible, but ...'). Speakers often follow it with a contrasting aber clause. Common in discussion and debate.

Examples

"Rein theoretisch könnte man das so lösen, aber in der Praxis scheitert es."

Natural Translation

In theory you could solve it that way, but in practice it fails.

Literal Translation

Purely theoretically could one that so solve, but in the practice it fails.

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