Technology is scientific knowledge applied to practical purposes; it also refers to the machines, equipment, and systems developed through that knowledge.
What Does Technology Mean?
Technology comes from the Greek tekhnologia, a combination of tekhne (art, craft, skill) and logia (study of). The word entered English in the early 17th century to describe a systematic treatment of an art or craft. During the Industrial Revolution its meaning broadened to cover machinery and applied science. Today it is one of the most frequently used nouns in English, appearing in headlines, job adverts, academic writing, and everyday conversation.
In modern usage, technology typically means one of two things. First, it can describe the activity of applying scientific knowledge: advances in medical technology. Second, it refers to the physical objects — devices, software, systems — produced through that activity: the latest technology for language learning. The word is most often uncountable in everyday speech, though technologies (plural) is common in academic and technical writing when referring to distinct systems.
Note the important distinction between technology (the broad field and its products) and technique (a specific method or procedure). Both share the Greek root tekhne, but they are not interchangeable: you would say a breathing technique or surgical technique, not a breathing technology.
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Level & Usage note |
|---|---|
| She used language-learning technology to practise English on her mobile phone. | A2 — technology as tool |
| The school bought new technology to help students with reading difficulties. | B1 — technology as equipment |
| Modern technology has made it much easier to stay in contact with people abroad. | B1 — technology + infinitive clause |
| The company invested heavily in cutting-edge technology to improve its manufacturing process. | B2 — collocation: cutting-edge technology |
| Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing are reshaping entire industries. | C1 — technologies (countable, plural) |
Collocations
| Collocation | Example |
|---|---|
| use technology | We use technology to automate repetitive tasks. |
| develop technology | Scientists are developing technology to detect diseases earlier. |
| adopt technology | Many small businesses were slow to adopt new technology. |
| cutting-edge technology | The lab is equipped with cutting-edge technology. |
| advanced technology | Advanced technology has transformed healthcare. |
| digital technology | Digital technology has changed the way we communicate. |
| information technology (IT) | She studied information technology at university. |
| assistive technology | Assistive technology helps people with disabilities to live more independently. |
| emerging technology | Blockchain is one of the most discussed emerging technologies. |
| rely on technology | Modern hospitals rely on technology to monitor patients around the clock. |
Usage Notes
Key Points for ESL Learners
Countable vs uncountable: Use technology (uncountable) when speaking generally — Technology is changing fast. Use technologies (countable plural) when referring to specific, distinct systems — New technologies are emerging every year.
No article needed in general statements: Say Technology has transformed education, not The technology has transformed education (unless you mean a specific technology already mentioned).
Technology vs technique: Technique refers to a method or skill: a relaxation technique. Do not substitute technology here.
Informal shortening: In informal speech and writing, tech is widely used as both a noun (the latest tech) and a modifier (a tech company). This is appropriate in conversation and journalism but avoid it in formal academic writing.
Common Mistakes
Watch Out For
I am interested in the technology of computers. (unnecessary 'of' phrase)
I am interested in computer technology. (noun modifier is more natural)
Technologies is very important in modern life. (wrong: general sense needs uncountable)
Technology is very important in modern life.
She has a good technique with mobile technology. (confusing technique and technology)
She uses mobile technology confidently. / She has a good technique for memorising vocabulary.