Technology
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- Last Updated: Tuesday, 03 June 2025 12:08
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"Technology" is a common topic in the IELTS exam. You may be asked to talk about technology in your speaking exam or write an essay that is related to technology. That is why it is important to know at least the common terms that you could use while describing a technology or writing an essay to present convincing arguments and examples.
In this "vocabulary" lesson, we will learn some words and phrases related to technology and see how they could be actually used in a sentence.
1. Surfing the web: [Meaning: To navigate through the World Wide Web or Internet]
Example 1: I like to learn new things, and surfing the web for at least an hour per day helps me a lot in learning.
Example 2: During the pandemic, you should stay home and surf the web to order your groceries.
2. State-of-the-art: [Meaning: Modern, latest, up to date]
Example 1: The state-of-the-art technology in medical science has made it possible to treat many diseases which were deadly even just a few years ago.
Example 2: The airline authority boasts about the fact that all their aeroplanes use state-of-the-art navigation equipment.
3. Technophobe: [Meaning: Someone who fears, dislikes, or avoids new technology]
Example 1: Though we are not a tech company, we still do not need people who are afraid to embrace technology and are considered technophobes.
Example 2: There is no way you can avoid technology in the workplace in the modern age. If you're a technophobe, you should hire someone with computer and technological skills who can help you do that.
4. Technophile: [Meaning: A technology enthusiast]
Example 1: Natasha is an experienced software developer and a passionate technophile.
Example 2: I consider myself a technophile, but I don't feel a rush to buy every new gadget available in the market. It is something I have practised for a long.
5. Automation: [Meaning: To use the technology or technological applications so that human input and interactions could be minimised]
Example 1: Only automation can cut our production costs and give us a competitive advantage over our competitors.
Example 2: Automation of over-the-phone banking service has allowed many banks to cut back on the number of customer service representatives and costs they needed in the past.
6. Cutting-edge: [Meaning: Highly advanced, leading, innovative, pioneering]
Example 1: Cutting-edge technology has given us opportunities to be in touch with friends and family who stay far away.
Example 2: She is a bright and superb theorist in physics whose intellectual speculations placed her at the cutting edge, even among civil rights activists.
7. Tech geek: [Meaning: Who is inordinately dedicated to and involved with technology; or someone who is obsessed with technology, especially computers]
Example 1: I believe Alan doesn't mind being called a tech geek, he might even like it to some extent, to our surprise.
Example 2: Someone does not have to be a tech geek to understand this simple technological fact.
8. Computer buff: [Meaning: A person who knows a lot about computers and is tremendously interested in computers]
Example 1: I am not a computer buff, but still, I solve most of the problems that occur with my desktop computer.
Example 2: Although many computer buffs and geeks have known about this tech problem for many months, many companies in our city are only just waking up to it.
9. Digital divide: [Meaning: The gap between those who have easy access to digital technology and those who do not]
Example 1: The digital divide between urban and rural areas is still a major concern in many developing countries.
Example 2: Bridging the digital divide should be a priority for governments aiming to ensure equal opportunities in education.
10. Technological disruption: [Meaning: A radical change in an industry or market due to emerging technology]
Example 1: The emergence of streaming services caused a major technological disruption in the film and music industries.
Example 2: Technological disruption often forces traditional businesses to adapt quickly or risk becoming obsolete.
11. Artificial intelligence (AI): [Meaning: The simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn]
Example 1: Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in healthcare to assist doctors with diagnosis and treatment planning.
Example 2: Many fear that AI could replace human workers in several industries, leading to massive job losses.
12. Digital footprint: [Meaning: The trail of data a person leaves when using digital services]
Example 1: It is important to manage your digital footprint carefully, as it can affect your online reputation and even job prospects.
Example 2: Every time we browse the internet or use social media, we leave behind a digital footprint that companies can track.
13. Cybersecurity: [Meaning: Measures taken to protect computer systems and networks from attacks or unauthorised access]
Example 1: As data breaches become more common, companies are investing heavily in cybersecurity infrastructure.
Example 2: Individuals should take basic cybersecurity steps like using strong passwords and avoiding suspicious links.
14. Digital literacy: [Meaning: The ability to use digital tools effectively and understand how they work]
Example 1: Schools must integrate digital literacy into their curriculum to prepare students for the modern workforce.
Example 2: Without digital literacy, many elderly citizens struggle to access essential online services.
15. E-waste: [Meaning: Discarded electronic appliances such as old mobile phones, computers, and televisions]
Example 1: Improper disposal of e-waste poses serious environmental and health risks, especially in low-income countries.
Example 2: Recycling e-waste responsibly is crucial as the world becomes increasingly reliant on electronic devices.
16. Internet of Things (IoT): [Meaning: The interconnection of everyday devices to the internet, enabling them to send and receive data]
Example 1: The Internet of Things allows homeowners to control lights, thermostats, and appliances remotely.
Example 2: While IoT technology brings convenience, it also raises concerns about data privacy and surveillance.
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