Technique means a method or way of doing something, and also skill in performing: a breathing technique, her piano technique. In some languages the same word also covers machines and devices, but English technique never does. Household machines are household appliances, tools and devices for a job are equipment, and large machines are machinery.
technique: will you get the meaning right?
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a technique for + -ing/noun; a breathing/relaxation/memory + technique; learn/use/develop + a technique; sb's + technique (sport, music, art)
- This simple breathing technique helps me stay calm before job interviews.
- The coach filmed us in the pool so we could see what was wrong with our technique.
- Scientists have developed a new technique for measuring air pollution in city streets.
What changed
First versionWe bought new kitchen technique last month: a fridge and a dishwasher.
RevisionWe bought new kitchen appliances last month: a fridge and a dishwasher.
A fridge and a dishwasher are devices, while technique means a way of doing something. Kitchen machines are called kitchen appliances. In some languages a single word covers all the machines in a home, and this leads to the mistake.
For devices, gadgets and technical progress in general, English uses technology: Technology is changing the way we study. Technique is always about how a person does something. For example, good exam technique is the ability to manage your time and effort well in an exam.
Your turn
Our office got new computer ___, so everyone now has a faster laptop and a second monitor.
Show the answer
equipment — Laptops and monitors are equipment, so the answer is equipment. A technique is a method or a skill: you can't buy it and hand it out to employees. However natural computer technique may sound, it doesn't mean computers and other hardware.
Write about a technique that helps you study, work or deal with stress. Name it and explain in what situation you use it.
When I have to remember a long list of words, I use a simple technique: I link each word to a room in my flat.
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