methodology

[ meth-uh-dol-uh-jee ]

noun

plural methodologies.

1. a set or system of methods, principles, and rules for regulating a given discipline, as in the arts or sciences.
2. Philosophy.
   1. the underlying principles and rules of organization of a philosophical system or inquiry procedure.
   2. the study of the principles underlying the organization of the various sciences and the conduct of scientific inquiry.
3. Education. a branch of pedagogics dealing with analysis and evaluation of subjects to be taught and of the methods of teaching them.

methodology

/ ˌmɛθəˈdɒlədʒɪ; ˌmɛθədəˈlɒdʒɪkəl /

noun

1. the system of methods and principles used in a particular discipline
2. the branch of philosophy concerned with the science of method and procedure

Derived Forms

• ˌmethodoˈlogically, adverb
• ˌmethodˈologist, noun
• methodological, adjective

Other Word Forms

• meth·od·o·log·i·cal [meth-, uh, -dl-, oj, -i-k, uh, l], adjective
• meth·od·ol·o·gist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of methodology¹

From the New Latin word methodologia, dating back to 1790–1800. See method, -o-, -logy

Example Sentences

The leader stated the council had "to be undertaking a full job evaluation process" and it was "doing this in partnership with the trade unions using a nationally recognised job evaluation methodology".

From BBC

Fifteen years later, in a west London hotel, Mourinho is similarly happy to reflect on his methodology.

From BBC

But the White House's official methodology document makes clear that they have not calculated this for all the countries on which they have imposed tariffs.

From BBC

Studies by the Geiers that claimed to have found one were widely refuted and their methodology questioned.

From Los Angeles Times

"The methodology used by the campaigners is different to that used by the Environment Agency for its compliance assessments," the water company said in a statement.

From BBC

Related Words

• mode
• procedure
• technique