Definition

Adverb 1. According to the exact meaning or facts; in a strict sense: Used to indicate that a statement is true based on a precise definition, rule, or literal interpretation, even if it seems to contradict a general understanding. 2. With regard to technical skill or technology: Relating to the practical application of specialized knowledge, methods, or machinery. 3. With regard to technique: Concerning the method, skill, or procedure used in a particular field, especially in arts, sports, or sciences.

Usage Examples

• According to exact meaning:
  • Technically, a tomato is a fruit, not a vegetable.
  • He is technically the owner, though he never uses the property.
• Regarding technical skill/technology:
  • The bridge is a technically impressive feat of engineering.
  • We are technically capable of launching the mission next week.
• Regarding technique:
  • The pianist's performance was technically flawless, though it lacked emotion.
  • The athlete is technically superior to her competitors.

Advanced Usage

• "Technically speaking": A phrase used to introduce a statement that is precise or true in a strict, often pedantic, sense.
  • Technically speaking, whales are mammals, not fish.
• Used to correct or clarify a common misconception by appealing to formal rules or definitions.
  • You're not fired; technically, your contract was not renewed.

Variants and Related Words

• Technical (adjective): Involving or concerned with applied and industrial sciences, or with precise details.
  • The manual is full of technical jargon.
• Technician (noun): A person skilled in the technical aspects of a field.
  • A laboratory technician.

Synonyms

• Strictly: In a strict manner; exactly.
• Formally: According to convention or rules.
• Precisely: In exact terms; accurately.

Antonyms

• Generally: In a general sense; approximately.
• Informally: In a relaxed, non-literal manner.
• Practically: In a realistic or functional way (as opposed to a theoretical one).

Related Phrases

• A technicality: A point of law or a small detail in a set of rules, especially one used to create an unexpected or unfair outcome.
  • He was released on a legal technicality.
• In technical terms: Expressed using the specialized language of a particular field.
  • In technical terms, the process is called "catalytic cracking".

Adverb

1. according to the exact meaning; according to the facts
   • technically, a bank's reserves belong to the stockholders
   • technically, the term is no longer used by experts
2. with regard to technical skill and the technology available
   • a technically brilliant solution
3. with regard to technique
   • technically lagging behind the Japanese
   • a technically brilliant boxer