technicality
Technicality (noun) means a minor rule or detail that seems unimportant to most people but can have major consequences. Example: “The case was thrown out on a technicality.”
How to use technicality
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA small, specialist detail — especially a rule that decides an outcome despite seeming trivial.
Word forms
technicalities plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The case was thrown out on a _____.
Etymology
From technical plus the noun suffix "-ity."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for technicality
See all rhymes for technicality →Frequently asked questions
What does “technicality” mean?
The word “technicality” means a minor rule or detail that seems unimportant to most people but can have major consequences. In plain terms, a small, specialist detail — especially a rule that decides an outcome despite seeming trivial.
How do you pronounce “technicality”?
“Technicality” is pronounced tehk-nih-KA-lih-tee (/ˌtɛknɪˈkælɪti/ in IPA).
How do you use “technicality” in a sentence?
Here is “technicality” used in a sentence: “The case was thrown out on a technicality.”
What part of speech is “technicality”?
“Technicality” is a noun.
How many meanings does “technicality” have?
“Technicality” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a minor rule or detail that seems unimportant to most people but can have major consequences.