What is technical? Pronunciation and usage in English

technical means . Learn how to pronounce and use technical through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of technical

technicaladjective

/ˈtɛknɪkl/
Definition & pronunciation of technical

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "technical." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /tɛkˈnɪkəl/ (TEK-nuh-kul)

Let's break that down further:

  • tek: This syllable sounds like the word "tek" as in "text" (but shorter). It's a crisp, quick "t" sound followed by a short "eh" sound (like in "bed").
  • nuh: This is just the short "uh" sound, like in "cup".
  • kul: This syllable rhymes with "rule." The "c" is pronounced as a "k" sound.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the sounds:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable – "nīk." This is important!
  • 'c' sound: In American English, the 'c' in "technical" is almost always pronounced as a 'k' sound, not a 's' sound. (However, in some British accents, it can be pronounced as an 's'.)

Resources to hear it:

Tip: Practice saying it slowly at first, focusing on each syllable. Then gradually increase the speed.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some practice phrases using the word "technical"?

Usage and examples with the word technical in English

Let's break down how to use the word "technical" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings, so understanding those nuances is key to using it correctly.

1. Primarily – Relating to Technology or a Specific Craft/Skill:

  • Definition: This is the most common usage. “Technical” refers to things that involve detailed knowledge, special skills, or the specifics of a particular field or technology.
  • Examples:
    • "The technical specifications of the new car are very complex." (Meaning: detailed details about the car's engineering)
    • "He’s a technical writer, creating manuals and guides." (Meaning: someone skilled in writing about technical subjects)
    • “We need a technical expert to troubleshoot the computer problem.” (Meaning: someone with specialized computer knowledge)
    • “The technical aspects of the project are being handled by the engineering team.” (Meaning: the complex engineering details)
    • "She's studying technical drawing." (Meaning: the art of creating precise technical drawings)

2. Formal or Specialized Language:

  • Definition: “Technical” can also describe language that's specific to a particular profession or field, often using jargon or specialized terms.
  • Examples:
    • “The conference included a technical session on the latest advancements in climate science.” (Meaning: a session using very specific scientific terminology)
    • "The report used a lot of technical language that was difficult for the general public to understand." (Meaning: language only experts in the field would know)
    • "He spoke in technical terms, assuming everyone present already understood the concepts."

3. Concerning Mechanics or Details (Less Common Now):

  • Definition: Historically, “technical” used to have a stronger association with mechanics ("technical difficulties" referring to malfunctions). It's still used in this context, but less frequently than in the first two definitions.
  • Example: “There were some technical difficulties with the sound system during the concert.” (Meaning: equipment malfunction)

Here's how to use "technical" in sentences, with different contexts:

  • Positive: “The company’s technical support team is excellent - they always resolve issues quickly.” (Implies competence and expertise)
  • Neutral: “The researcher is focused on the technical challenges of the experiment.” (Simply stating a focus on the details)
  • Negative (sometimes): “The instructions were too technical and confusing for a beginner.” (Suggests the instructions are overly complicated)

Synonyms for "Technical":

  • Specialized
  • Detailed
  • Technical
  • Precise
  • Complex
  • Scientific
  • Engineering

Resources to help you learn more:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • In what kind of context are you trying to use the word "technical"? (e.g., writing a report, talking to a colleague, describing something you saw)

Synonyms for the word technical

Practice with vocabulary technical

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The new software requires users to have some ______ expertise to operate it efficiently.
  2. The conference was delayed due to a ______ issue with the projector and sound system.
  3. Please follow the ______ instructions provided for assembling the furniture.
  4. While theoretical knowledge is important, students also need opportunities for ______ application of their skills.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following terms best describes specialized language or vocabulary used within a particular field? A) colloquial B) informal C) jargon D) technical

  2. What kind of skills are most crucial for a software engineer developing complex algorithms? A) social B) managerial C) technical D) interpersonal

  3. A comprehensive guide detailing the operation and maintenance of a complex machine would primarily contain what type of information? A) anecdotal B) conceptual C) technical D) philosophical

  4. When giving precise instructions for a sensitive procedure, it is vital to be: A) vague B) ambiguous C) exact D) general

  5. The architect's design focused on the building's usability and efficient operation rather than just its appearance, making it highly: A) aesthetic B) ornamental C) functional D) decorative

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: She possesses a deep understanding of computer systems and their internal workings. Rewrite: (Use "technical" or a related word form)
  2. Original: The manufacturing process encountered an unexpected problem that halted production temporarily. Rewrite: (Use "technical" or a related word form)
  3. Original: We need very specific information about the device's internal components to repair it. Rewrite: (DO NOT use "technical")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. technical
  2. technical
  3. specific
  4. practical

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. C) jargon, D) technical
  2. C) technical
  3. C) technical
  4. C) exact
  5. C) functional

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. She possesses significant technical expertise in computer systems.
  2. The manufacturing process encountered a technical glitch that temporarily halted production.
  3. We need precise information about the device's internal components to repair it.

Comment ()