理論的な

• Reading: りろんてきな
• Romaji: rironteki na
• Kanji breakdown: 理 (ri) — reason, principle; 論 (ron) — argument, theory; 的 (teki) — -ical, -ive (adjectival suffix)
• Pronunciation: /ɾi.ɾoɴ.te.ki.na/

Meaning

Theoretical; based on theory rather than practice or experience.

A na-adjective formed from 理論 (riron, theory) + 的 (teki, -ical/-ive suffix) + な. Describes something grounded in theory as opposed to 実践的 (jissenteki, practical). Used in academic and intellectual discourse: 理論的な研究 (theoretical research), 理論的に考える (think theoretically). Can also describe a person who approaches things logically and systematically.

Examples

1. 彼の説明はいつも理論的でわかりやすい。 His explanations are always theoretical and easy to follow.
2. 理論的な知識だけでなく実践も大切だ。 Practical experience matters just as much as theoretical knowledge.
3. もっと理論的に考えてから結論を出すべきだ。 You should think more carefully and theoretically before drawing conclusions.

Usage Guide

Context: academics, science, business

Tone: intellectual

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 理 (ri, reason/principle) + 論 (ron, argument/theory) + 的 (teki, -ical suffix). Literally 'of a principled-argument nature' — relating to systematic reasoning.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated