Is 'technology' a countable or uncountable noun?

It can be both. As a general concept, it's uncountable ('Technology advances quickly'). When referring to specific types or branches, it's countable ('Several new technologies were unveiled at the show').

What is the difference between 'technology' and 'technique'?

'Technology' refers to the application of knowledge, often involving machinery or systems. 'Technique' refers to a specific method or way of doing something, often a skill (e.g., 'a painting technique'). A technique may or may not involve advanced technology.

What does 'high technology' mean?

It refers to the most advanced and sophisticated technology currently available, often involving electronics, computing, and cutting-edge research (e.g., robotics, AI). It's often shortened to 'high tech'.

Can 'tech' be used as a formal synonym for 'technology'?

No, 'tech' is an informal, abbreviated form. It's common in casual speech, brand names (e.g., 'tech giant'), and journalism, but should be replaced with 'technology' in formal academic or business writing.

technology

C1 (Very High Frequency, Academic Word List)

UK/tekˈnɒlədʒi/US/tekˈnɑːlədʒi/

Neutral to formal. Common in academic, business, technical, and everyday contexts.

My Flashcards

Definition

Meaning

The application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry, including machinery, equipment, and systems.

A body of knowledge, methods, and processes related to a specific field or area (e.g., medical technology); can also refer to the cultural sphere or impact of technological devices and systems (e.g., 'the role of technology in society').

Linguistics

Semantic Notes

Broad term encompassing both physical devices (hardware) and intangible systems/software. Often implies innovation and progress. Can be used as a countable noun for specific types (e.g., 'green technologies') or uncountable for the general concept.

Dialectal Variation

British vs American Usage

Differences

Spelling and pronunciation are the primary differences. Concept and usage are identical.

Connotations

Identical in both varieties. No significant connotative differences.

Frequency

Extremely high frequency in both varieties, with slightly higher prominence in American media and business discourse.

Vocabulary

Collocations

strong

advanced technologycutting-edge technologydigital technologyinformation technology (IT)develop technologyadopt technology

medium

modern technologynew technologymedical technologytechnology companyuse of technologypace of technology

weak

simple technologyappropriate technologyinvestment in technologybenefits of technologyimpact of technology

Grammar

Valency Patterns

technology for + V-ing/noun (technology for communication)technology in + field (technology in education)technology of + noun (technology of the future)technology + verb (technology evolves, technology improves)

Vocabulary

Synonyms

Strong

high techinnovationapplied scienceengineering

Neutral

techniquesequipmentmachinerysystemsappliances

Weak

toolsgadgetsdevicesapparatus

Vocabulary

Antonyms

natureprimitivismsimplicitymanual labourhandicraft

Phrases

Idioms & Phrases

“ahead of the technology curve”
“bleeding-edge technology”
“technology for technology's sake”

Usage

Context Usage

Business

Refers to IT infrastructure, R&D investments, competitive advantage, and product development ('We need to upgrade our office technology').

Academic

Discussed as a field of study, a historical force, or a methodological approach ('The technology of ancient Rome'; 'research in biotechnology').

Everyday

Refers to common devices like smartphones, computers, and the internet ('I'm not very good with new technology').

Technical

Specific reference to systems, protocols, hardware specifications, and engineering solutions ('The technology relies on blockchain encryption').

Examples

By Part of Speech

verb

British English

The firm is looking to technology its supply chain for greater efficiency.
(Note: 'technologise' is extremely rare and not standard; the verb form is not commonly used.)

American English

(No common standard verb form. Typically paraphrased: 'to implement technology in' or 'to digitize'.)

adverb

British English

(No standard adverb form. Typically paraphrased: 'in a technological way' or 'using technology'.)

American English

(No standard adverb form. Typically paraphrased: 'in a technological way' or 'using technology'.)

adjective

British English

The technology sector saw significant growth.
We attended a technology conference in London.

American English

The technology sector saw significant growth.
She works for a tech startup in Austin. (Note: 'tech' is a common informal adjectival short form.)

Examples

By CEFR Level

Mobile phones are useful technology.
I use technology to talk to my friends.

Modern technology helps us work faster.
The school has invested in new computer technology.

The rapid development of technology is changing many industries.
We need to consider the ethical implications of this new medical technology.

The proprietary technology gives the company a significant competitive edge in the market.
Critics argue that an over-reliance on digital technology is eroding our capacity for deep, sustained thought.

Learning

Memory Aids

Mnemonic

Think: TECHNO (like techno music, which uses electronic instruments) + LOGY (study of) = the study/practical use of electronic/mechanical systems.

Conceptual Metaphor

TECHNOLOGY IS A TOOL / A FORCE (e.g., 'harnessing technology', 'technology is driving change').

Watch out

Common Pitfalls

Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)

Avoid using the Russian cognate 'технология' for every context where English uses 'technology'. In English, it's broader and often used uncountably. For specific industrial processes, 'process' or 'technique' might be more accurate.
In Russian, 'техника' often translates to 'equipment' or 'machinery', not directly to 'technology'.

Common Mistakes

Using as a plural incorrectly (e.g., 'many technologies are...' is correct for types, but 'the technology are...' is wrong).
Confusing 'technology' (application of knowledge) with 'science' (theoretical knowledge).
Misspelling as 'tecnology'.

Practice

Quiz

Fill in the gap

Many universities now offer specialised courses in financial to keep up with the digitalisation of banking.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following sentences uses 'technology' in its broad, uncountable sense?

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

: It can be both. As a general concept, it's uncountable ('Technology advances quickly'). When referring to specific types or branches, it's countable ('Several new technologies were unveiled at the show').
: 'Technology' refers to the application of knowledge, often involving machinery or systems. 'Technique' refers to a specific method or way of doing something, often a skill (e.g., 'a painting technique'). A technique may or may not involve advanced technology.
: It refers to the most advanced and sophisticated technology currently available, often involving electronics, computing, and cutting-edge research (e.g., robotics, AI). It's often shortened to 'high tech'.
: No, 'tech' is an informal, abbreviated form. It's common in casual speech, brand names (e.g., 'tech giant'), and journalism, but should be replaced with 'technology' in formal academic or business writing.