What is technique? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of technique

techniquenoun

/tɛkˈniːk/
Definition & pronunciation of technique

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "technique" in English. It's a tricky one for learners because it's not always pronounced exactly as it looks! Here’s a breakdown:

1. The Basic Sound:

  • "tech": This part sounds like "tek" – like the beginning of the word "text". The "e" is a short, “eh” sound.
  • "nique": This is the tricky part. It sounds like “nick,” but with a slightly more emphasized “i” sound. It’s not “neek.”

2. Combining It:

Put those two parts together: tek-nik (with a slight pause between “tek” and “nik”)

3. Emphasis:

The primary stress is on the first syllable – "TECH".

4. Recordings (Highly Recommended!)

The best way to truly learn is to hear it:

  • Google: Search "how to pronounce technique" on Google. You’ll find audio examples from Merriam-Webster and other reliable sources.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/technique/ – This website has pronunciations from native speakers.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them:

  • "neek": Don't say “neek.” It’s a very common mistake.
  • No Pause: Don’t slur the "tek" and "nik" together. A very slight pause will help.
  • Over-emphasizing the “i”: The “i” in “nique” should be a clear “ick” sound, not a drawn-out “ee.”

Resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a sentence using the word "technique" so you can practice?

Usage and examples with the word technique in English

Let's break down how to use the word "technique" in English! It's a versatile word with several different nuances. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. As a Noun (Most Common Usage):

  • Definition: A particular method or way of doing something, often involving a set of steps or procedures. It's about how you do something effectively.

  • Examples:

    • "She learned a new technique for playing the piano." (A specific method for playing)
    • "The chef used a secret technique to make the sauce incredibly flavorful." (A specific method for cooking)
    • "Photography is about mastering different techniques, like lighting and composition." (Various methods for taking good photos)
    • "His negotiation technique was surprisingly effective." (His way of handling negotiations)
    • "The best technique for solving this problem is to break it down into smaller steps." (A specific approach to solving a problem)

2. As a Verb (Less Common, but important):

  • Definition: To employ a specific method or way of doing something. It means to use a technique.

  • Examples:

    • "The surgeon techniqued the incision with precision." (The surgeon used a specific method to make the cut.)
    • "Don't just wing it – technique your presentation carefully." (Plan and practice your presentation with a specific method.)
    • “He techniqued a series of moves to distract the guard.” (He employed a specific method, or strategy, to divert attention.)

3. Figurative Usage – "Technique" as Skill or Artistry:

  • Definition: Beyond just a method, "technique" can refer to a highly developed skill or artistry. It suggests a level of mastery.

  • Examples:

    • "Her dance technique was flawless." (She had extremely precise and skilled movements.)
    • “He has a remarkable technique for drawing portraits." (He's very skilled in the way he renders portraits.)
    • "The band’s musical technique is innovative and complex." (Their style and methods are advanced.)

Key Differences & Synonyms:

Word Emphasis Example
Technique Method, procedure, skill "He used a specific technique to tie the knot."
Method Process, way "The method for solving the equation is..."
Skill Proficiency, ability "She has a natural skill for painting."
Approach Strategy, way of dealing "Their approach to customer service was excellent."
System Organized method "They used a data analysis system."
Process series of actions "The cooking process involved several steps."

Tips for Using "Technique":

  • Be specific: "Technique" is most effective when you can briefly explain what it is. Don’t just say “He used a technique.” Say “He used a technique involving layering colors.”

  • Context is key: The precise meaning of "technique" will depend on the situation.

  • Consider synonyms: If "technique" feels too formal, or you need a slightly different word, consider “method,” “procedure,” “approach,” or “skill.”

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use “technique” in a specific context (e.g., business, sports, art)?
  • Help you differentiate between similar words (method, skill, etc.)?
  • Give you a sentence using "technique" and ask you to identify its meaning?

Synonyms for the word technique

Practice with vocabulary technique

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The surgeon demonstrated a new __________ for minimally invasive heart surgery, significantly reducing patient recovery time.
  2. Effective time management is a crucial __________ for boosting productivity in any professional setting.
  3. Developing a strong personal brand requires a specific __________ to networking and content creation.
  4. She perfected her negotiation __________ through years of experience in high-stakes business deals.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (Select all that apply where appropriate)

  1. Which of the following refers to a specific, skilled method used to perform a task? a) Hypothesis b) Technique c) Outcome d) Data

  2. To successfully manage large projects, one must employ various organizational __________. a) Tactics b) Techniques c) Concepts d) Objectives e) Methods

  3. The artist's innovative __________ in oil painting allowed him to achieve unprecedented visual effects. a) Inspiration b) Medium c) Technique d) Subject

  4. Developing high-level coding __________ often requires years of dedicated practice and problem-solving. a) Technique b) Skill c) Procedure d) Formula

  5. Which term describes a planned course of action designed to achieve a long-term goal? a) Tactic b) Method c) Strategy d) Approach

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Her unique way of blending colors gave her paintings a distinctive glow. (Rewrite using "technique")
  2. Companies often search for novel methods to optimize their manufacturing processes. (Rewrite using "technique")
  3. To improve public speaking, one should focus on the capacity to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively. (Rewrite without "technique", but using a suitable replacement word)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The surgeon demonstrated a new technique for minimally invasive heart surgery, significantly reducing patient recovery time.
  2. Effective time management is a crucial strategy for boosting productivity in any professional setting.
  3. Developing a strong personal brand requires a specific approach to networking and content creation.
  4. She perfected her negotiation technique through years of experience in high-stakes business deals.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Technique
  2. a) Tactics, b) Techniques, e) Methods
  3. c) Technique
  4. b) Skill
  5. c) Strategy

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Her unique technique for blending colors gave her paintings a distinctive glow.
  2. Companies often search for novel techniques to optimize their manufacturing processes.
  3. To improve public speaking, one should focus on the skill to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively.

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