ENGLISH
REFERENCE

technique

n. C / U
B1 Intermediate Oxford US //tɛkˈnik// UK //tɛknˈiːk// tech·nique Academic General-service

n. a specific way of doing an activity, especially one that requires practice and skill. You often learn these methods in sports, art, or science to get better results.

n. a systematic procedure or routine by which a complex task is accomplished. It also describes the degree of skill or command demonstrated in executing a performance or artistic work.


SIMPLE

The chef taught us a new technique for chopping onions.

CONTEXTUAL

To improve her swimming speed, she spent months refining her breathing technique with a professional coach.

COMPLEX

The pianist's interpretation lacked emotional depth, but his flawless technique allowed him to execute the demanding sonata with mechanical precision.

Synonyms
Origin

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.

Usage

Often followed by the preposition 'for' when describing the purpose of the method, or 'of' when describing the action itself.

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