# technique

/tɛkˈnik/ (US) · /tɛknˈiːk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/technique
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. a specific method

noun · CEFR B1 · Academic

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

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

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

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

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

## Examples

- The chef taught us a new technique for chopping onions.
- To improve her swimming speed, she spent months refining her breathing technique with a professional coach.
- The pianist's interpretation lacked emotional depth, but his flawless technique allowed him to execute the demanding sonata with mechanical precision.

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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.