English Reference
noun

technique

n.
US /tɛkˈnik/ UK /tɛknˈiːk/ tech·nique UK spelling technique's, technique's

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Academic

    a particular way of doing something, especially one that you need to learn or practice.

    a systematic procedure or method by which a complex or scientific task is accomplished.

    Simple

    The artist used a new technique to mix the paints for her latest landscape.

    In context

    The researchers developed a novel technique for extracting DNA samples without damaging the surrounding tissue structure.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'for' followed by a gerund or 'of' followed by a noun.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the level of skill or practical ability you have in an activity like music, sport, or art.

    the execution or performance of an artistic or physical task, often distinguished from intellectual or creative content.

    Simple

    Her piano technique is excellent, but she needs to play with more feeling.

    In context

    While the young striker possesses raw speed, his finishing technique requires significant refinement before he can compete at the professional level.

    Usage

    Usually uncountable when referring to a person's general level of ability.

Usage technique called · advanced technique · agricultural technique


Borrowed from French technique (“technicality; branch of knowledge”), noun use of technique (“technical”), from Ancient Greek τεχνικός (tekhnikós, “of or pertaining to art, artistic, skilful”), from τέχνη (tékhnē, “art, handicraft”). Doublet of technic.

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

This entry
Origin French technique
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated