technicality — a small detail in a rule or law, especially one that seems unreasonable or that prevents a sensible decision
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a small detail in a rule or law, especially one that seems unreasonable or that prevents a sensible decision
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌteknɪˈkæləti/
Example Sentences
- The student's exam was disqualified on a technicality - he wrote his name in blue ink instead of black.
- The contract was voided due to a technicality in the signature requirements.
- She won the debate competition on a technicality when her opponent exceeded the time limit by two seconds.
technicality
NOUN[/ˌteknɪˈkæləti/]
a small detail in a rule or law, especially one that seems unreasonable or that prevents a sensible decision
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Greek 'tekhnikos' (technical, relating to craft or art), which passed through Latin before entering English. Originally denoting something 'technical' or 'skill-related,' it evolved to mean a minor point of procedure or regulation, often used to refer to a fine detail exploited as a loophole.
Breakdown
tekhnikos (Greek: technical, of craft) + -ality (suffix forming nouns). The Greek root connects to 'techne' (art, craft), while -ality converts the adjective into an abstract noun form.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The student's exam was disqualified on a technicality - he wrote his name in blue ink instead of black.”
“The contract was voided due to a technicality in the signature requirements.”
“She won the debate competition on a technicality when her opponent exceeded the time limit by two seconds.”
“The parking ticket was dismissed on a technicality - the meter had expired only one minute before the officer arrived.”
📚Related Words
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