technically

Everyday

1. Technically means according to the exact rules or facts, even if it doesn't seem that way in everyday life, as in "Technically, a tomato is a fruit". tree →
2. Technically means relating to skill or method, as in "technically brilliant". tree →
3. Technically can mean connected with machines, science or technology. tree →

In the lessons

In science, "technically" is used for strict definitions (technically a spider is not an insect). In sport and music, a performance can be technically perfect. In everyday arguments, children say "technically" to win a point using the exact rules. Phrases: "technically speaking", "technically correct", "technically possible".

Examples

• Technically, a tomato is a fruit because it has seeds. tree →
• Technically speaking, a spider is not an insect. tree →
• The dancer is technically brilliant. tree →
• "You said I couldn't eat the biscuits — technically, I only ate one!" tree →
• It's technically possible to walk there, but it would take all day. tree →
• The film was technically impressive with amazing special effects. tree →

Note

Adjective: technical. "Technically" often signals that the next point is true by strict rules but may not be what people mean in normal talk, so it can sound like a clever excuse. Spelled with -ically.

In Jewish tradition

In science, "technically" is used for strict definitions (technically a spider is not an insect). In sport and music, a performance can be technically perfect. In everyday arguments, children say "technically" to win a point using the exact rules. Phrases: "technically speaking", "technically correct", "technically possible".

Examples

• The word סָפַר safar is technically a finite verb, and not a noun as the syntax requires. (Sefer Yetzirah, Sefaria community translation) tree →

Note

Adjective: technical. "Technically" often signals that the next point is true by strict rules but may not be what people mean in normal talk, so it can sound like a clever excuse. Spelled with -ically.