technically

adverb

tech·​ni·​cal·​ly ˈtek-ni-k(ə-)lē 

1

: with regard to or in accordance with a strict or literal interpretation of something (such as a rule, a term, or an official description or designation)

What they're doing is technically illegal.

Technically, a tomato is a fruit.

Terry-Thomas's character gives a splendid display of gamesmanship in a tennis match that he wins unfairly without technically cheating.

—Tim Stanley

The business happens to be in Woodside, N.Y., in the borough of Queens, which technically isn't part of Long Island …

—Paul R. Martin

While she wasn't technically beautiful, she was striking.

—Sue Grafton

2

: with regard to technology

a more technically advanced vehicle

a technically feasible solution

Looking through the telescope via computer from, say, your office is now technically possible …

—Aubrey Wallace

3

: with regard to technique (as in a performance or movement)

a technically flawless gymnastic routine

musicians learning to play a technically difficult passage

… he is a resourceful, technically polished actor …

—Michael Goodwin

Hagen's awareness that his own method of hitting the ball could be improved had earlier helped him make his swing more technically sound …

—Herbert Warren Wind

Examples of technically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Under the direction of van Beek, the team leans into molecular mixology to craft technically precise libations that showcase regional ingredients in innovative ways. —Megan Murphy, Travel + Leisure, 1 May 2025

Thus, Liverpool Futbol Club was born but inevitably, confusion began to emerge with Liverpool Football Club, so while this isn’t technically included in their official name, there had to be some differentiation made for a more global audience. —Nick Miller, New York Times, 1 May 2025

The necklace technically belongs to Florian’s estate, which their son will inherit, but Lizzie decides that the piece of jewelry is hers to keep. —The New Yorker, New Yorker, 30 Apr. 2025

The Lady of the Isles (as she's technically called while in the Inner Hebrides of Mull and Iona) also wore her custom Gold Midnight Moon necklace from Daniella Draper. —Janine Henni, People.com, 30 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

technical entry 1 + -ly entry 2

First Known Use

1675, in the meaning defined at sense 2