Word
technically
Phoneticstech·ni·cal·ly, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈtɛknɪkəɫi/
UK/tˈɛknɪkli/
Sentence adverb
Definitions
01strictly true
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adv. according to the exact facts or rules, even if it is not how people usually see the situation.
adv. according to a strict or literal interpretation of facts, rules, or laws, often in contrast to common perception.
“Technically, a tomato is a fruit, but we usually treat it like a vegetable in cooking.”
“Technically, the contract had already expired, but both parties continued to operate under the original terms while the new agreement was being drafted.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
02skill and method
C1 · Advanced Formal
adv. relating to the way something is done or the skill used to do it.
adv. in a manner relating to the execution, technique, or practical skills of an art, science, or profession.
“The pianist played the difficult song technically well, but it lacked emotion.”
“The bridge was technically brilliant in its design, though the aesthetic choices were criticized by the local architectural board.”
Synonyms
03technology and science
B2 · Upper Intermediate Science Academic
adv. in a way that involves machines, computers, or specialized scientific knowledge.
adv. in a manner involving or requiring specialized knowledge of industrial, mechanical, or scientific subjects.
“The new software is technically advanced and can handle very large files.”
“The report was technically complex, requiring a background in organic chemistry to fully grasp the implications of the findings.”
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “technically” in context.
Real-World Examples
“Although the new rule technically applies to AI “identities”, Spotify says AI-generated profiles are invariably a front for AI-made tracks as well.” “Technically Berger’s no longer with us: he died in 2017 at the age of 90.” Etymology
From technical + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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