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Synonyms

methodology

American  
[meth-uh-dol-uh-jee] / ˌmɛθ əˈdɒl ə dʒi /

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 British  
/ 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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • methodological adjective
  • methodologically adverb
  • methodologist noun

Etymology

Origin of methodology

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Specifically, critics have pointed out the methodology allowed San José Mayor Matt Mahan — a white candidate who recently entered the race and is polling poorly — to vault above former U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

“S&P Dow Jones Indices does not comment on speculation regarding potential index or methodology changes,” said the company in an emailed statement.

From Barron's

“The methodology was based on well-established metrics consistent with formulas widely used to set debate participation nationwide — a combination of polling and fundraising — and developed without regard to any particular candidate.”

From Los Angeles Times

However, experts and infant formula companies are questioning the integrity of Healthy Florida First’s, MAHA-aligned, testing methodology and results.

From Salon

In a statement, Nielsen said, “Different methodologies produce different results,” adding that the new methodology would “create a one-time shift in viewing data, reflected in the February 2026 Gauge.”

From The Wall Street Journal