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Technicality Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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technicality

[tɛkˈnɪkəlɪti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

legal context

Technicality refers to a minor detail or a specific point of law that may have significant implications in a legal context. It often pertains to procedures or regulations that are strictly enforced. Although technicalities may seem insignificant, they can determine the outcome of legal cases or discussions. In many instances, parties may focus on technicalities to gain an advantage, emphasizing strict adherence to rules.

Synonyms

aspect, detail, nuance, provision.

Examples of usage

  • The case was dismissed on a technicality.
  • She lost the contract due to a minor technicality.
  • The judge ruled in favor of the defendant because of a legal technicality.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal contexts, technicalities can often sway the outcome of a case, emphasizing the importance of precise language in laws.
  • Judges sometimes refer to technicalities as 'minor details' that may seem trivial but can change legal interpretations starkly.
  • Many famous court cases revolve around technicalities that help or hinder justice, showcasing the double-edged nature of such specifications.

Business

  • In business negotiations, technicalities can create hurdles, but they also provide clarity on contracts and agreements.
  • Professionals often encounter technicalities in project management, where deviating from specified details can derail the entire project.
  • Effective communication can often bridge technicalities, making it crucial for teams to understand the implications of these finer points.

Education

  • In academic writing, technicalities like citation formats and proper structure are critical for passing assessments.
  • Teaching students about technicalities fosters attention to detail, an essential skill in both academic and professional settings.
  • Certain subjects, such as mathematics or science, contain numerous technicalities that require careful navigation for correct answers.

Technology

  • In software development, technicalities in code can lead to bugs or crashes, making precision vital for functionality.
  • Operating system updates often focus on correcting technicalities to enhance performance without altering user experience.
  • Tech communities emphasize the importance of understanding technicalities in hardware and software to innovate and troubleshoot effectively.

Origin of 'technicality'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Greek 'technē,' meaning 'art' or 'skill,' combined with the '-ality' suffix that denotes a quality or condition.
  • It was first used in English in the late 19th century, reflecting the growing importance of specialized skills in industries.
  • Various languages have similar terms derived from 'technical,' emphasizing the global relevance of technical details.

The term 'technicality' originates from the 19th century, deriving from the word 'technical,' which itself comes from the Latin 'technicus,' meaning 'pertaining to art or skill.' The suffix '-ity' is used to form nouns that refer to a state or condition. Over time, the usage of 'technicality' has evolved, particularly in legal and academic circles, to highlight the importance of precise adherence to established rules and norms. Its frequent application in legal contexts underscores the tension between strict legal interpretations and the broader principles of justice and fairness.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,460, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.