methodology
mehth-uh-DOL-uh-jee
Methodology (noun) means a set of methods, rules, or procedures used in a particular field or study. Example: “The research paper explains its methodology in the second chapter.”
noun
1
A set of methods, rules, or procedures used in a particular field or study.
"For example, an agile methodology should promote the frequent delivery of working systems rather than a single big bang delivery."
— John Hunt, Agile Software Construction (2006)
"The research paper explains its methodology in the second chapter."
"Different scientists disagreed over the correct methodology to use."
"The teacher asked us to describe the methodology behind our science experiment."
How to use methodology
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe overall approach or system of methods used to carry out a task or study.
Common mistake
Often used loosely to mean simply "method" — strictly, methodology refers to the study or system of methods, not a single technique.
Common pairings
research methodology
teaching methodology
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Word forms
- Plural
- methodologies
Fill the gap
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The research paper explains its _____ in the second chapter.
Etymology
From French méthodologie, built from method + -ology ("study of").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for methodology
See all rhymes for methodology →Frequently asked questions
What does “methodology” mean?
The word “methodology” means a set of methods, rules, or procedures used in a particular field or study. In plain terms, the overall approach or system of methods used to carry out a task or study.
How do you pronounce “methodology”?
“Methodology” is pronounced mehth-uh-DOL-uh-jee (/ˌmɛθ.əˈdɑ.lə.d͡ʒi/ in IPA).
How do you use “methodology” in a sentence?
Here is “methodology” used in a sentence: “The research paper explains its methodology in the second chapter.”
What part of speech is “methodology”?
“Methodology” is a noun.
Where does the word “methodology” come from?
The word “methodology” comes from French. From French méthodologie, built from method + -ology ("study of").
Is “methodology” a common word?
“Methodology” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
What is the difference between a methodology and a method?
A method is a single specific technique or procedure used to accomplish a task, while a methodology is the broader set of methods, rules, and principles that guide how those techniques are chosen and applied within a field or study. In other words, a methodology explains the overall approach, and a method is one tool within it.
When should you use the word methodology instead of process?
Use methodology when referring to the underlying framework of rules or procedures that governs how work is done in a discipline, such as research methodology or teaching methodology. Use process when describing the actual sequence of steps taken to complete a task, since a process is usually more concrete and specific.
Is methodology a formal word?
Yes, methodology is typically used in academic, scientific, and professional writing rather than casual conversation. In everyday speech, people more often say "method" or "approach" instead.
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