Technique vs. Technology — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 30, 2023
Technique refers to a specific way of doing something; Technology involves tools and devices developed from scientific knowledge.
Difference Between Technique and Technology
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Technique and Technology are often used in related contexts but hold distinct meanings. Technique refers to the method or way of doing something, focusing on skill and procedure. In contrast, Technology encompasses the practical application of scientific knowledge, often resulting in tools, devices, or systems.
While a Technique is about the skillful method or approach to a task, Technology often refers to the tangible outcome of applied scientific understanding. For example, a chef's cutting technique is a skill, whereas the kitchen appliances they use are a form of technology.
In the realm of art, a painter's technique might involve specific brushstrokes or color blending methods. On the other hand, technology in art could refer to digital drawing tablets or photo editing software.
In medicine, surgical techniques are the procedures and methods surgeons use, whereas medical technology includes devices like MRI machines or robotic surgery equipment. Technique here is about the surgeon's skill, and technology is about the tools that assist in the process.
In sports, an athlete's technique in running or swimming is about their form and efficiency. Conversely, technology in sports might include high-tech footwear or swimsuits designed to reduce drag, which are products of scientific advancement.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Method or way of doing something
Tools and devices from scientific knowledge
Focus
Skill and procedure
Practical application of science
Context
Often personal or skill-based
Involves tangible outcomes or systems
Examples
Artistic brushstrokes, surgical procedures
Digital tablets, MRI machines
Field Use
Sports form, cooking methods
High-tech sports gear, kitchen appliances
Compare with Definitions
Technique
Artistic Method
The painter's technique involves blending bold colors.
Technology
Scientific Tools
Smartphones are a remarkable piece of technology.
Technique
Professional Procedure
The chef's cutting technique is very efficient.
Technology
Innovative Systems
The company introduced new technology to improve production.
Technique
Athletic Form
Her swimming technique helped her win the race.
Technology
Electronic Devices
Her laptop is the latest technology for graphic design.
Technique
Method of Performance
Her piano playing technique is exceptional.
Technology
Technology ("science of craft", from Greek τέχνη, techne, "art, skill, cunning of hand"; and -λογία, -logia) is the sum of techniques, skills, methods, and processes used in the production of goods or services or in the accomplishment of objectives, such as scientific investigation. Technology can be the knowledge of techniques, processes, and the like, or it can be embedded in machines to allow for operation without detailed knowledge of their workings.
Technique
Skillful Approach
He developed a unique technique for solving puzzles.
Technology
The application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry
Advances in computer technology
Recycling technologies
Technique
The basic method for making or doing something, such as an artistic work or scientific procedure
Learned the techniques involved in painting murals.
Technology
The application of science, especially to industrial or commercial objectives.
Technique
Skill or command in a particular activity
A pianist with superb technique.
Technology
The scientific method and material used to achieve a commercial or industrial objective.
Technique
(uncountable) The practical aspects of a given art, occupation etc.; formal requirements.
Technology
Electronic or digital products and systems considered as a group
A store specializing in office technology.
Technique
(uncountable) Practical ability in some given field or practice, often as opposed to creativity or imaginative skill.
Technology
(Anthropology) The body of knowledge available to a society that is of use in fashioning implements, practicing manual arts and skills, and extracting or collecting materials.
Technique
(countable) A method of achieving something or carrying something out, especially one requiring some skill or knowledge.
Technology
(uncountable) The study of or a collection of techniques.
Technique
The method or manner of performance in any art; - also called technic.
Technology
(countable) Any useful skill or mechanism that was developed or invented.
Technique
The body of technical methods and procedures used in a science or craft.
Technology
(archaic) A discourse or treatise on the arts.
Technique
The detailed movements used for executing an artistic performance; technical skill; artistic execution; as, a pianist's fingering technique.
Technology
Industrial science; the science of systematic knowledge of the industrial arts, especially of the more important manufactures, as spinning, weaving, metallurgy, etc.
Technique
A practical method or art applied to some particular task
Technology
The practical application of science to commerce or industry
Technique
Skillfulness in the command of fundamentals deriving from practice and familiarity;
Practice greatly improves proficiency
Technology
The discipline dealing with the art or science of applying scientific knowledge to practical problems;
He had trouble deciding which branch of engineering to study
Technology
Applied Science
Solar panels are an example of green technology.
Technology
Technical Advancements
Medical technology has advanced rapidly in recent years.
Common Curiosities
What is "Technology"?
Technology involves tools, devices, or systems developed through scientific knowledge.
What is a "Technique"?
A technique is a specific method or way of doing something, focusing on skill.
Is "Technique" always manual?
Not necessarily; it can involve tools but emphasizes the skill or method.
Can one have a "Technique" in technology?
Yes, one can have a technique for using or developing technology.
Can "Technique" be learned?
Yes, techniques can be learned and improved upon with practice.
Can technology influence techniques?
Yes, advancements in technology can lead to changes or improvements in techniques.
Can "Technique" involve technology?
Yes, techniques can involve using technology but are primarily about the method.
Are "Technique" and "Technology" interchangeable?
No, they refer to different concepts; technique is about method, technology is about tools.
Is "Technology" dependent on science?
Yes, technology is typically based on scientific knowledge and principles.
Does "Technology" always involve electronics?
No, technology encompasses a wide range of tools, not just electronics.
Is "Technology" a recent concept?
Technology has evolved over time but is not just a modern concept.
Is "Technique" related to personal skill?
Yes, technique often involves personal skill, expertise, or style.
Does "Technology" always improve efficiency?
Often, but not always; it depends on the technology and its application.
Can "Technique" exist without technology?
Yes, techniques can be purely skill-based without the use of technology.
Are "Technique" and "Technology" industry-specific?
No, they can be applied across various industries and fields.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
