methodology
Definitions
The system of methods and principles used in a particular field or activity
方法论；（某领域所用的）一整套方法和原则
The branch of study concerned with the methods themselves and how to justify them
方法学；研究方法本身及其论证的学问
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedmethod + -logy (study of) = 'the study of methods.' It sits one level above a single method: not the steps you take, but the reasoned framework for choosing and defending which methods to use in the first place.
Why It Means This
People often misuse methodology as a fancy synonym for 'method,' but the -logy ending changes everything: a method is what you do; a methodology is the study and justification of methods. Saying 'I used three methodologies' usually just means 'three methods.' Reserve methodology for the reasoning layer — why these methods, in this order, are the right road to take.
Common Collocations
- 1.research methodology研究方法论
- 2.agile methodology敏捷方法论
- 3.sound methodology严谨的方法论
- 4.flawed methodology有缺陷的方法论
- 5.methodology section方法论部分
Example Sentences
- 1.
The paper explains the methodology behind the survey in detail.
- 2.
Agile is a popular methodology for managing software projects.
- 3.
Critics questioned the study's methodology, not its conclusions.