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methodology

/ˌmɛθəˈdɒlədʒi/  ·  say it: meth·uh·DAHL·uh·jee

a system of methods used in a field

In Formal & Academic

In more detail

1. (noun) a system of methods and principles used in a particular activity or study

2. (noun) the study of methods and how they work

Examples

• 1. The researcher explained the methodology used in the experiment.
• 2. Understanding research methodology is important for conducting good studies.

How to use methodology

Methodology refers to the organized system or set of procedures used in a discipline or project, particularly in academic, scientific, or professional contexts. It emphasizes the principled framework behind methods rather than individual techniques, and is more formal and comprehensive than simple 'method.' The term is common in research, education, and management settings.

Register: formal

Common phrases

• research methodology
• teaching methodology
• sound methodology
• scientific methodology
• rigorous methodology
• develop a methodology

Synonyms

approach · method · system · framework · procedure

Word family

methodological · methodologically · methodologist

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use methodology as a simple synonym for 'method' or 'way of doing something,' but it properly refers to a systematic framework of multiple methods and underlying principles, not a single technique.

Nearby in Formal & Academic

inference, insofar, juxtapose, notwithstanding, nuance, paradigm

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained