English Reference
Noun

technicality

n.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˌtɛknɪˈkæɫɪti/ UK /tˈɛknɪkˈælɪti/ tech·ni·cal·i·ty UK spelling technicalities, technicality's

n.a small detail or rule that is very specific and often seems unimportant. It is usually used when someone is trying to find a reason to say something is not allowed.

n.a minor detail or specific rule that is often overlooked but can be significant in a formal or legal context. Frequently used to describe a technical error or a procedural flaw.


SIMPLE

He lost the game because of a small technicality.

CONTEXTUAL

The lawyer argued that the contract was invalid due to a minor technicality regarding the signature date.

COMPLEX

While the substance of the agreement was sound, the legal team spent months resolving a technicality regarding the jurisdiction of the arbitration clause.


From technical + -ity.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated