Definition

Not connected to or based on any theory or theoretical ideas.

Example

The research was atheoretical, focusing solely on practical applications without any theoretical framework.

Conversation

I was reading that article about the new research methods.

Oh really? What did they say about them?

They mentioned that some approaches are quite atheoretical and just focus on results.

That makes sense, but I wonder how effective they really are without a solid theory behind them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Atheoretical is formed from "a-" (meaning without) and "theoretical" (from Greek "theoria", meaning contemplation or speculation). The word describes something that is without theory or not based on theoretical principles.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without' ('a-') and 'theory' ('theoretical') to remember that 'atheoretical' means lacking a theoretical basis.

Visually Confused Words