are a technique

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are a technique" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that functions as a method or approach to achieve a specific outcome. Example: "These methods are a technique for improving productivity in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Annotation paths are a technique for the semantic annotation of XML-Schemas.

Data & Knowledge Engineering

"What usually happens is that the offers are so low, the seller rejects them all," says Losh. "These auctions are a technique to generate offers.

Forbes

Questionnaire surveys are a technique for gathering statistical information about the attributes, attitudes, or actions of a population by a structured set of questions.

International Encyclopedia of Human Geography

Message sequence charts (MSCs) are a technique to describe patterns of interaction between the components of interactive distributed systems by specific interaction diagrams.

Science of Computer Programming

Joints with threaded rods glued in wood are a technique of great interest for both new projects and the restoration of old structures.

Construction and Building Materials

Message Sequence Charts (MSCs) are a technique to describe patterns of interactions between the components of interactive distributed systems by specific diagrams.

Electronic Notes in Theoretical Computer Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It's a technique.

The New York Times

"There is a technique.

The New Yorker

It is a technique for balancing contradictions.

The New York Times - Arts

This is a technique that is here to say.

The New York Times - Tech

Behavioral detection is a technique, not a science.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific method, ensure that the context clearly defines the purpose and application of what "are a technique". For example: "These drills are a technique used by athletes to improve their agility."

Common error

Avoid using "are a technique" to describe broad or vague concepts. Be specific about what constitutes the technique and its intended outcome. For example, instead of saying "positive thinking are a technique", specify "visualization and affirmations are a technique to improve confidence."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are a technique" functions as a predicate nominative, linking a subject (plural noun) to a noun phrase that renames or identifies it. Ludwig AI confirms its common use in defining methods or approaches, framing them as established techniques.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

38%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are a technique" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to describe multiple methods or approaches. Ludwig AI shows its frequent use in Science and News & Media, indicating its versatility across different contexts. To ensure clarity, be specific about the purpose and application of what "are a technique", and avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives such as "constitute a method" or "represent a strategy" can provide nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constitute a method

Replaces "are" with "constitute" to emphasize the composition of a method.

represent a strategy

Substitutes "technique" with "strategy", implying a more planned approach.

function as a process

Uses "function as" to highlight the operational aspect and replaces "technique" with "process".

serve as a mechanism

Emphasizes the functional role by using "serve as" and substitutes "technique" with "mechanism".

form a methodology

Replaces "are" with "form" and "technique" with "methodology" to denote a structured approach.

embody an approach

Uses "embody" to convey the concept of representing a specific approach.

constitute a means

Replaces technique with means. It is more general in the specific context.

involve a procedure

Substitutes "are a technique" with "involve a procedure", focusing on the steps taken.

reflect a tactic

Using "reflect" instead of "are" to show that technique is a demonstration. "Technique" is substituted with "tactic" to imply something planned

characterize a practice

Changing to "characterize" implies that it is common or representative of something. "Practice" instead of "technique" highlights repetition and experience.

FAQs

How can I use "are a technique" in a sentence?

You can use "are a technique" to describe methods or approaches used to achieve a specific goal. For instance, "These methods "are a technique" for improving productivity."

What can I say instead of "are a technique"?

Alternatives include "constitute a method", "represent a strategy", or "function as a process". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey. For example, a better alternative may be "constitute a method" when you want to emphasize the composition of a method.

Is it always appropriate to use "are a technique"?

While grammatically correct, "are a technique" should be used when referring to specific, definable methods or approaches. Avoid using it for overly broad or vague concepts. In those cases, alternatives like "represent a strategy" may be more fitting.

What is the difference between "are a technique" and "is a technique"?

"Are a technique" is used when referring to multiple methods or approaches, while "is a technique" is used for a single method or approach. For example, "These drills "are a technique"" (multiple drills), versus "This drill is a technique" (single drill).