English

technology

gb/tɛknˈɑləd͡ʒi/ us/tɛknˈɑləd͡ʒi/
B1 English
~ 900
Senses
0 senses
Noun B1 entity
1

Use of science for practical purposes

The use of science to make tools, machines, or systems that help people do things.

Usage pattern: [someone] uses technology to [do something]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'technology' (the general field) with a specific device, saying 'a technology' when they mean 'a device' or 'a piece of equipment'.
Synonyms
engineering (Focuses more on the design and construction process rather than the broader application of science.) | applied science (More formal; emphasizes the scientific basis behind the practical use.)
Antonyms
primitive methods (Refers to basic, traditional ways of doing things without modern tools or machines.)
Collocations
modern technology |digital technology |advanced technology |information technology |cutting-edge technology
Themes
science |engineering |innovation |technology |core_vocabulary
Examples
  • Modern technology has transformed the way we communicate.
  • The company is investing heavily in green technology.
  • Technology is essential for space exploration.
  • Advances in medical technology have saved many lives.
  • The school introduced new technology into the classroom.
Learner examples
  • We use technology every day.
  • Technology helps us talk to people far away.
  • New technology can make life easier.
  • She studies computer technology at school.
  • Technology is important for doctors.
Noun technical B2 entity
2

A particular machine or system

A machine or system made using science and engineering.

Usage pattern: [something] is a new technology for [purpose]
Common mistake:
Learners may overgeneralize and call any idea or method 'technology', even if it doesn't involve physical devices or systems.
Synonyms
device (Refers to a single piece of equipment; less formal.) | innovation (Emphasizes novelty and originality rather than physical machinery.)
Antonyms
obsolete equipment (Refers to old machines or systems no longer in use due to being outdated.)
Collocations
new technology |emerging technologies |military technology
Themes
engineering |manufacturing |technology |science |core_vocabulary
Examples
  • This solar panel is the latest technology in renewable energy.
  • The lab is testing a new technology for water purification.
  • The military unveiled a stealth technology for aircraft.
Learner examples
  • This phone uses new technology.
  • They made a new technology to clean water.
  • The car has smart technology.
Noun formal B2 entity
3

Technical methods in a field

The ways of doing things in a special area of work using technical skills and knowledge.

Usage pattern: [field] technology
Synonyms
techniques (More general and not limited to science-based methods.) | methodology (Focuses more on the structured approach to processes rather than the tools themselves.)
Antonyms
manual methods (Refers to doing work by hand without specialized processes or equipment.)
Collocations
agricultural technology |medical technology |mining technology
Themes
industry |science |technology |work |education
Examples
  • Medical technology has improved patient outcomes.
  • The agricultural technology used here increases crop yields.
  • Mining technology has advanced significantly in recent decades.
Learner examples
  • Medical technology helps doctors treat patients.
  • Farmers use new agricultural technology.
  • Mining technology makes work faster.
Grammar
Dictionary form
technology
IPA
GB/tɛknˈɑləd͡ʒi/
US/tɛknˈɑləd͡ʒi/
Syllables & stress
tech - no - logy (3 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (no)
Word forms
Noun
  • Base: technology
  • Plural: technologies, technology
Word family
Forms
technologies noun
Core family
technological adjective B2 technical adjective B1 technician noun B1
Related words
technologically adverb technically adverb B1 tech noun B1 technique noun B1
Negative and opposite forms
nontechnical adjective
Advanced or less common
technologist noun
Expressions

assistive technology

1
/ˈæsɪstɪv tɛknˈɑləd͡ʒi/
fixed phrase technical

Tech that helps disabled people

Technology that helps people with disabilities do things they find hard to do.

Examples
  • Assistive technology can help students with learning difficulties.
  • Wheelchair lifts are one type of assistive technology.

cutting-edge technology

1
/kˈʌtɪŋ ˈɛd͡ʒ tɛknˈɑləd͡ʒi/
fixed phrase

Most advanced modern tech

Technology that is very new and advanced.

Examples
  • The company prides itself on using cutting-edge technology.
  • Cutting-edge technology is driving the industry forward.

green technology

1
/ɡɹˈin tɛknˈɑləd͡ʒi/
fixed phrase

Eco-friendly tech solutions

Technology that is good for the environment.

Examples
  • Green technology is important for fighting climate change.
  • Solar panels are a form of green technology.

state-of-the-art technology

1
/stˈeɪt əv ðə ˈɑɹt tɛknˈɑləd͡ʒi/
fixed phrase

Most modern version of tech

The newest and best kind of technology available now.

Examples
  • The hospital uses state-of-the-art technology for surgery.
  • This camera has state-of-the-art technology.

information technology

1
/ˌɪnfɔɹmˈeɪʃən tɛknˈɑləd͡ʒi/
fixed phrase technical

Technology for storing and using data

The use of computers and other technology to store and share information.

Examples
  • She works in information technology as a software engineer.
  • He works in information technology at a large bank.
  • Information technology has changed how we communicate.
  • Information technology has changed how companies operate.

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