Definition

Not based on theory; practical or real rather than abstract or hypothetical.

Example

The untheoretical approach to solving the problem proved to be more effective than the theoretical one.

Conversation

I was reading this article about practical science yesterday.

Oh really? Was it more untheoretical than most stuff you see?

Definitely! It focused on real-world applications rather than just ideas.

That sounds interesting; I prefer learning things that are untheoretical too!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Untheoretical → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "theoretical" (from Greek "theoria", meaning contemplation or speculation). The word "untheoretical" means not based on theory or speculation, indicating a practical or empirical approach instead.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being applied to 'contemplation' ('theoria') — this helps you remember that 'untheoretical' refers to something that is not based on theory.

Visually Confused Words