technical sense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "technical sense" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a specific definition or meaning of a word or concept in a technical or specialized field. Example: In the field of computer science, the term "algorithm" has a different technical sense than its common usage. In a technical sense, an algorithm is a set of instructions for solving a specific problem using a finite number of steps.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In one technical sense, however, its time has run out.

The New York Times

The approach "makes technical sense to me," he said.

The New York Times

I use "loopy" here in the technical sense.

The New York Times - Books

allocations?" his answer, in the most technical sense, was truthful.

The New York Times

Donald Trump's proposed policies are, in this technical sense, toxic.

The New Yorker

In a very narrow and technical sense, perhaps.

The New Yorker

Well, perhaps that's strictly true in the most technical sense.

The Guardian - Business

They thought of it as uncivilized in the technical sense.

Yale University

So it has remained, if only in a highly technical sense.

The New York Times

Of course, in a technical sense a multitasking machine is more advanced.

The New Yorker

The games will build his physical side and his technical sense".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "technical sense" with a brief explanation or restatement of the term's specific meaning within that context. For example: 'In a technical sense, an algorithm is a step-by-step procedure...'

Common error

A common error is assuming readers automatically understand the "technical sense" you intend. Always provide sufficient context or a brief explanation. For example, instead of saying 'That's technically correct', clarify with 'In a technical sense, that aligns with the specifications, but...'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "technical sense" functions as a qualifier, specifying that a statement or definition is to be understood within a particular, often specialized, context. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it clarifies potentially ambiguous terms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "technical sense" is a qualifier used to specify that a term or statement should be interpreted according to a precise, often specialized, definition. Grammatically correct and very common, it appears most frequently in news and media, science, and encyclopedia entries. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity when a word or concept has multiple interpretations. When using this phrase, it's important to provide adequate context to avoid misunderstandings. Alternatives like "in a specialized context" or "according to the specific definition" may also be appropriate depending on the specific context. Understanding its function and usage helps in writing clear and precise communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a specialized context

Replaces "technical sense" with a focus on the specific area of knowledge.

according to the specific definition

Emphasizes adherence to a precise, often field-specific, meaning.

from a scientific standpoint

Highlights a perspective rooted in scientific principles and knowledge.

in formal terminology

Suggests the use of established, precise language within a discipline.

using precise terminology

Focuses on the accurate and exact use of language.

in the jargon

Implies usage understood within a specific professional or technical group.

strictly speaking

Highlights a precise interpretation, often contrasting with a looser one.

by definition

Emphasizes that a statement is true based on a particular definition.

in the strictest interpretation

Highlights the most literal or precise meaning of something.

with specific meaning

Underscores the idea that a word or concept has a defined and particular meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "technical sense" in a sentence?

You can use "technical sense" to clarify that you're referring to a specific, often specialized, definition of a term. For example: "In a "technical sense", an algorithm is a set of instructions, not just any process."

What's a good way to replace "technical sense" in my writing?

Consider alternatives like "in a specialized context", "according to the specific definition", or "from a scientific standpoint" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify "technical sense" when using technical terms?

While not always mandatory, specifying "technical sense" is useful when a term has both a common and a specialized meaning. This helps prevent misinterpretations by readers who may not be familiar with the technical definition.

What's the difference between "technical sense" and "practical sense"?

"Technical sense" refers to a precise, often theoretical, definition within a field, while "practical sense" refers to usefulness or feasibility in real-world applications. They highlight different aspects of understanding or evaluating a concept.