What does the term 'theoretical' refer to in the context of study?

The term 'theoretical' in the context of study refers to a speculative understanding, which involves concepts, principles, and ideas that are based on theories rather than direct practical application or established facts. Theoretical frameworks provide a lens through which to examine phenomena without necessarily being grounded in empirical evidence or concrete outcomes. This distinction is particularly important in academic and scientific discussions, where theoretical models may lead to further investigation and experimentation.

In contrast, practical application pertains to how concepts are applied in real-world scenarios, concrete evidence relates to measurable and observable phenomena, and established facts suggest information that is widely recognized and accepted as true based on reliable sources. Therefore, the essence of 'theoretical' focuses on exploration and conceptualization, which is encapsulated well in the idea of a speculative understanding.