it was technically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was technically" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that is accurate or valid in a specific technical sense, even if it may not be true in a broader context. Example: "While the project was delayed, it was technically completed on time according to the original schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It was technically staggeringly proficient and quite chilling in its emotional effect.

The Guardian

It was technically perfect".

The Guardian - Sport

It was technically very poor.

The New York Times - Sports

"But it was technically impossible.

The New York Times

Still, it was technically a dropped catch.

The Guardian - Sport

It was, technically, a part-time job.

The New York Times - Arts

"Well, it was technically a date," Ms. Crow said, laughing.

The New York Times

It was, technically, Stromback's forty-third-birthday party.

The New Yorker

He insisted that it was "technically incorrect" to specify bribes.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It is technically true.

The Guardian

It's technically not right".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was technically" to introduce a statement that is accurate in a narrow, specific sense, but might not be entirely true or applicable in a broader context. This is useful for clarifying details without misleading the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "it was technically" without providing the specific technical context. Without clarity, the phrase can sound evasive or confusing. Always follow up with the details that explain the technicality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was technically" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It qualifies the truthfulness of a statement, indicating that it's true according to a specific technical definition or interpretation. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was technically" is a versatile tool for adding nuance and precision to your writing. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. It's important to provide the necessary technical context to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "in a technical sense" or "formally" for similar meanings. Ludwig's analysis indicates the phrase is frequently found in news and media, science, and formal business contexts, making it suitable for diverse applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was, in a technical sense

Emphasizes the adherence to technical specifications or definitions.

it was technically accurate

Highlights accuracy from a technical perspective, potentially contrasting with practical implications.

it was technically correct

Focuses on the correctness based on technical rules or standards.

it was technically speaking

Introduces a statement that is technically accurate but might not reflect the full picture.

in a technical capacity, it was

Inverts the phrase while maintaining the focus on technical adherence.

from a technical standpoint, it was

Indicates a judgment based on technical considerations.

it was by definition

States that something is true according to its established definition.

it was formally

Highlights compliance with formal rules or procedures.

it was officially

Emphasizes the official status or recognition of something.

it was nominally

Suggests something is true in name only, potentially lacking practical substance.

FAQs

How can I use "it was technically" in a sentence?

The phrase "it was technically" is used to indicate that something is true according to a specific set of rules or a particular interpretation, even if it might not be true in a general sense. For example, "It was technically a foul, but the referee didn't call it."

What's an alternative to saying "it was technically"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in a technical sense", "technically speaking", or "formally", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "it was technically correct" or "it was technically accurate"?

Both "it was technically correct" and "it was technically accurate" are valid. "Correct" implies adherence to rules, while "accurate" implies adherence to facts. The best choice depends on whether you are referring to rules or facts.

What does "it was technically possible" mean?

"It was technically possible" suggests something could be done according to technical capabilities or understanding, even if it might be impractical, difficult, or not actually carried out.