English vocabulary by topic
Technology Vocabulary
Explain how you use digital tools and describe common technical problems clearly. This guide covers everyday devices, software, data and broader ideas such as automation. The aim is useful English: knowing when to say upload, download or back up can make a support conversation much easier.
20 words and phrases · A2–C1 teaching levels · 5 quiz questions
How to use this vocabulary naturally
Use install software, connect to a network and back up files. Download means transfer to your device; upload means transfer from your device to another system. Technology vocabulary is easiest to remember when you connect each term to an action you actually perform.
Vocabulary by level
Levels are approximate teaching guides for the meanings shown, not official CEFR word classifications. Start where you feel comfortable and practise each word in your own sentence.
A2 — Everyday essentials
screen
A2noun
the surface of a device that displays text and images
Example: I increased the text size on my screen.
keyboard
A2noun
the set of keys used to enter text into a computer
Example: One key on my keyboard stopped working.
password
A2noun
a secret sequence used to access an account or system
Example: I reset my password after forgetting it.
download
A2verb
to transfer data from another system to your device
Example: I downloaded the worksheet before leaving the library.
online
A2adjective or adverb
connected to or available through the internet
Example: The class shares reading materials online.
B1 — Build your range
device
B1noun
a piece of equipment designed for a purpose
Example: This device can record sound during an interview.
software
B1uncountable noun
programs and instructions that a computer runs
Example: The school installed software for editing audio.
hardware
B1uncountable noun
the physical parts of a computer or electronic system
Example: The technician checked the hardware before changing any settings.
upload
B1verb
to transfer data from your device to another system
Example: Please upload your presentation to the class folder.
update
B1noun or verb
a change that brings software or information to a newer version
Example: The update added a clearer search function.
network
B1noun
connected devices or systems that can exchange data
Example: The printer is connected to the school network.
back up
B1phrasal verb
to make a separate copy of data for recovery
Example: I back up my project files every Friday.
B2 — More precise language
database
B2noun
an organised collection of information that can be searched
Example: The library database lists books by author and subject.
interface
B2noun
the controls through which someone uses a system
Example: The new interface makes the main buttons easier to find.
algorithm
B2noun
a sequence of steps or rules for performing a task
Example: The sorting algorithm puts the names in alphabetical order.
encryption
B2uncountable noun
transforming data so it cannot be read without the appropriate key
Example: The service uses encryption when transferring messages.
automation
B2uncountable noun
using systems to perform tasks with less direct human work
Example: Automation reduced the time spent sending routine reminders.
cloud storage
B2noun phrase
storing data on remote servers accessed through a network
Example: Cloud storage lets the group access shared files from different locations.
C1 — Extend your expression
compatibility
C1uncountable noun
the ability of systems or devices to work together
Example: We checked compatibility before buying the microphone.
digital literacy
C1noun phrase
the ability to use and evaluate digital tools and information
Example: The course develops digital literacy through practical research tasks.
Common mistakes and better choices
Check: I installed three softwares.
Use: I installed three programs.
Software is uncountable. Count programs or software packages.
Check: I downloaded my essay to the teacher's website.
Use: I uploaded my essay to the teacher's website.
Upload describes sending from your device; download describes receiving onto it.
Check: Remember to backup your files.
Use: Remember to back up your files.
Back up is the two-word verb. Backup is a noun or adjective, as in a backup copy.
IELTS speaking examples
These original practice prompts are not official test questions or scored answers. Adapt the language to your own experience. The Part 2 extract is an opening to expand into a longer response.
Part 1
What technology do you use when studying?
I use a laptop to organise notes and download reading materials. Cloud storage helps me move between devices, but I also back up important files separately.
Practise: Use action verbs to explain how the technology supports a routine.
Part 2 — sample opening
Describe a useful piece of technology.
A digital recorder has been especially useful for my language project. The device is small, and its interface is simple enough to use during an interview. Afterwards, I upload the recordings and use editing software to select clear examples.
Practise: Continue with when you obtained it and a specific occasion when it helped.
Part 3
What digital skills should schools teach?
Schools should teach digital literacy as well as basic software skills. Students need to judge information, understand how an algorithm can shape results and know how to manage their files. Learning where to click is useful, but it is only one part of the picture.
Practise: Move from practical skills to critical understanding with examples.
Check your understanding
Five-question vocabulary quiz
Choose one answer for each question. Your first choice is scored; read the explanation before moving on.
0 of 5 answered · 0 correct