technology / technique
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technology
The application of scientific knowledge and methods to solve practical problems or manufacture products. Also includes the totality of processes and equipment in a specific field.
Die moderne Technik hat unser Leben in den letzten Jahrzehnten stark verändert.
Modern technology has greatly changed our lives over the past decades.
technique
The specific way or ability to perform a particular activity, especially in sports, art, or crafts.
Seine Technik beim Gitarrespielen ist absolut beeindruckend.
His technique when playing guitar is absolutely impressive.
technical equipment
The totality of technical devices and systems in a building, vehicle, or system.
Ein Spezialist kümmert sich um die gesamte Technik in der Veranstaltungshalle.
A specialist takes care of all the technical equipment in the event hall.
The word 'Technik' (technology / technique) belongs to a word family. The related adjective is 'technisch' (technical), and a person who works with it professionally is a 'Techniker' or 'Technikerin' (technician).
Ein technischer Defekt hat den Zug gestoppt.
A technical fault stopped the train.
The meaning of 'Technik' (technology / technique) can be recognized from context. If it is about machines and inventions, it means technology in general. If people are talking about a person's skill, for example in sports or music, it means technique or execution. If it is about devices in a room, it means the equipment.
Die Technik des neuen Smartphones ist beeindruckend.
The technology in the new smartphone is impressive.
When referring to technology in general, 'Technik' (technology) is often combined with adjectives such as 'modern' (modern), 'digital' (digital), or 'neueste' (latest). A common phrase is also 'der Stand der Technik' (the state of the art).
Die neueste Technik ermöglicht schnellere Computer.
The latest technology enables faster computers.
To describe a person's ability, 'Technik' (technique) is often used with verbs such as 'beherrschen' (to master), 'verbessern' (to improve), or 'lernen' (to learn). For example, people talk about the 'Technik des Schwimmens' (swimming technique) or the 'Maltechnik' (painting technique).
Er muss noch an seiner Technik arbeiten, um schneller zu werden.
He still has to work on his technique to become faster.
medium
In art, das Medium refers to the form of expression or material used. Die Technik is the specific way the artist works with it. In an etching, Radierung is the medium, while Kaltnadeltechnik, for example, refers to the precise production method.
Für ihre neue Radierung verwendet die Künstlerin eine feine Kaltnadeltechnik.
For her new etching, the artist used a fine drypoint technique.
Für ihre neue Bildserie wählt die Künstlerin die Radierung als Medium.
For her new series of images, the artist chose etching as her medium.
