Hypothetical v Theoretical
I have pondered on the proper usage of each...
English Stack Exchange
Cited
'In 'hypothetically speaking', the implication is 'This is not going to happen, though. It's only conjectural, suppose....
On the other hand, in 'theoretically speaking', the meaning is just that, you are backed by theory; you are speaking with reference to theoretical concepts; also, 'We are only dealing with the theory here, don't ask if it has any practical use, that's not in scope.''
Oxford
Hypothetical (adjective) and Hypothetically (adverb)
'2 supposed but not necessarily real or true.' (670).
This definition fits a philosophical, propositional context.
Theoretical (adjective) and Theoretically (adverb)
'1 concerned with knowledge but not with practical application, 2 based on theory rather than experience or practice.' (1446).
This definitions fits a philosophical, propositional context.
My examples
Hypothetically, if Montreal built a new NHL style arena and was awarded a National Hockey League franchise, based on current Forbes franchise value rankings, the likely Montreal Maroons (version 2) would be one of the most valuable clubs in the League.
---
In the media, the Montreal Maroons as a concept is rarely mentioned and is hypothetical. There is no real arena, nor any real interest by the League to pursue this idea. The concept is mainly at the limited fan interest level, at present.
In contrast
With the new Videotron Centre in Quebec City, the National Hockey League has stated it will 'defer' the Quebec City expansion bid to a later date. Theoretically, Quebec City has an NHL style arena and is being considered for an actual, real, franchise which will be known as Quebec Nordiques (version 2). This franchise in theory may happen, but there is no practical application. Quebec City does not have a club, and neither does Montreal have a second club.
It could be stated, admitting these definitions overlap:
The Montreal Maroons (version 2) are a hypothetical concept.
The Quebec Nordiques (version 2) are a theoretical concept.
The difference being that at this point there is theory, based in fact, supporting Quebec City and not Montreal.
THE CONCISE OXFORD DICTIONARY (1995) Della Thompson (ed.), Oxford, Clarendon Press.
 |
| NHL: Mysteriously this image appears on an NHL.com video, minus the red arrow and question mark. Quebec City is highlighted for some reason. The video was produced by Sportsnet, a League broadcast partner in Canada. Is this a bizarre joke or mistake? Or is this a futuristic League map, accidentally leaked? |
