Word
methodology
Phoneticsmethod·ol·o·gy
US/ˌmɛθəˈdɑɫədʒi/
UK/mˌɛθədˈɒlədʒi/
Definitions
01a system of methods
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Academic
n. the set of methods and rules you use to do a specific task or research project.
n. a specific system of methods, procedures, and rules applied within a particular discipline or activity.
“The researchers explained their methodology for collecting data from the local schools.”
“The paper's primary weakness lies in its flawed methodology, specifically the failure to account for selection bias in the initial participant group.”
Usage
Often used in the singular when referring to a specific study's design.
Pitfall
The methodology of the experiment was very simple.
The method used in the experiment was very simple.
Use 'methodology' for a whole system or study of methods; use 'method' for a single, specific way of doing one thing.
Teaching tip
Learners often over-use this word when they simply mean 'method'. Remind them that methodology implies a systematic or theoretical framework.
02the study of methods
C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Science Academic · Technical
n. the study of how different methods are used in a subject like science or history.
n. the branch of logic or philosophy dealing with the general principles of formation of knowledge and the evaluation of methods.
“Students in the social sciences must take a course in methodology.”
“Advanced methodology seminars focus on the philosophical underpinnings of qualitative versus quantitative research frameworks.”
Usage
Commonly used as an uncountable noun in academic course titles.
Teaching tip
This is the more 'pure' definition of the word, though sense 1 is more common in general academic writing.
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “methodology” in context.
Verb
01. develop methodology
“The research team spent several months working to develop a methodology that would ensure data consistency.”
verb + noun
Real-World Examples
“The usual methodology for a survey is to assemble a roster of academics and invite them to trot out a chapter on their specialism, whether that be “Thomas Hardy” or “High Modernism”.” “The strategy relies on “new approach methodologies” (Nams), such as organoids, organ-on-a-chip systems and artificial intelligence, to process data and model biological processes.” Etymology
From French méthodologie. By surface analysis, method + -ology.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · AdvancedOxford
- Updated
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