# technical debt

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/technical-debt
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

the extra work you have to do later because you chose an easy or fast solution now instead of a better one. It is like borrowing time from the future to finish a project quickly today.

For teachers: the implied cost of future reworking required when choosing an easy but limited solution instead of a better approach that would take longer. This metaphorical debt accumulates through quick fixes and poor design, eventually slowing down future development.

## Examples

- We need to fix our technical debt before adding new features.
- The startup launched their app quickly to beat competitors, but they now struggle with technical debt that makes every update difficult.
- While taking on technical debt can be a strategic move to meet a critical deadline, failing to pay it down through refactoring eventually leads to a state of software rot.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in software engineering and project management; often paired with verbs like 'accrue', 'accumulate', or 'repay'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.