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teórico

te-OH-ree-koteˈoɾiko

“teórico” means “theoretical” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

theoretical

Also: academic, abstract
A scientist looking at a chalkboard filled with colorful formulas and abstract geometric shapes.

📝 In Action

Necesitamos un marco teórico para este proyecto.

B2

We need a theoretical framework for this project.

Su conocimiento es puramente teórico; no tiene experiencia.

B1

His knowledge is purely theoretical; he has no experience.

Es un planteamiento teórico muy interesante.

B2

It is a very interesting theoretical approach.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • especulativo (speculative)
  • abstracto (abstract)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • marco teórico – theoretical framework
  • conocimiento teórico – theoretical knowledge
  • física teórica – theoretical physics

theory exam

Also: theorist
NounmB1
Spain
A person sitting at a desk with a pencil and a stack of paper, looking thoughtful.

📝 In Action

Mañana tengo el examen teórico de conducir.

A2

Tomorrow I have the driving theory exam.

He aprobado el teórico, pero me falta el práctico.

B1

I passed the theory part, but I still have the practical part left.

Él es un famoso teórico de la sociología.

C1

He is a famous sociology theorist.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • practicante (practitioner)

Common Collocations

  • examen teórico – theory exam
  • teórico del arte – art theorist

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "teórico" in Spanish:

theorist→theory exam→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: teórico

Question 1 of 3

If you are studying for your driving license written test in Spain, you are studying for...

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
teoría(theory) — Noun
teorizar(to theorize) — Verb
teóricamente(theoretically) — Adverb
🎵 Rhymes▼
históricoretóricocategórico
📚 Etymology▼

From the Greek word 'theōrētikós' via the Latin 'theoreticus,' both of which refer to contemplation, looking at, or observing something without necessarily taking action.

First recorded: 16th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: theoreticFrench: théoriqueItalian: teorico

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'teórico' the same as 'hipotético'?

Can I use 'teórico' to describe a person?

Yes! As a noun, it describes someone who specializes in theory (a theorist). As an adjective, it can describe someone who is very academic and perhaps lacks practical skills.

How do I say 'theoretically'?

You use the adverb form: 'teóricamente'.