IELTS vocabulary for technology

executive function

Mental processes that enable us to plan and focus.

This process sharpens strategic thinking and enhances executive function.

spatial awareness

The ability to understand objects in physical space.

For instance, children who regularly engage with strategy-based games often demonstrate superior spatial awareness and improved logical reasoning compared to those who do not, as these games necessitate constant mental calculation and rapid decision-making.

intricate

Very complicated or detailed in design or structure.

Many modern titles require players to navigate complex environments, manage resources, and solve intricate puzzles under pressure.

collaborative

Involving two or more people working together effectively.

These interactions allow children to build collaborative skills in a digital landscape.

interpersonal competencies

Skills used to communicate and interact with others.

A clear example is seen in cooperative online games where players must communicate via voice chat to complete missions; this experience helps youngsters learn to negotiate roles and support peers, which are essential interpersonal competencies that translate well into real-world scenarios.

equilibrium

A state of balance between opposing physical forces.

As long as parents ensure a healthy equilibrium between virtual play and physical activities, the advantages of gaming can be fully realised.

inherently

In a way that is a permanent characteristic.

In summary, although excessive screen time can be problematic, video games are not inherently harmful and can indeed contribute positively to a child's growth.

realised

Achieved or brought into actual existence or use.

As long as parents ensure a healthy equilibrium between virtual play and physical activities, the advantages of gaming can be fully realised.

render

To cause someone or something to become something

For instance, the transition to automated warehouse systems has significantly reduced the demand for manual labour in logistics, leading to concerns that machines will render large segments of the workforce redundant and exacerbate economic inequality.

contentious

Causing or likely to cause an intense argument

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence into the workplace has sparked a contentious debate regarding its long-term impact on employment.

redundant

No longer needed or useful in a job

For instance, the transition to automated warehouse systems has significantly reduced the demand for manual labour in logistics, leading to concerns that machines will render large segments of the workforce redundant and exacerbate economic inequality.

catalyst

Something that causes an important event to happen

Conversely, many experts contend that artificial intelligence will act as a catalyst for industrial innovation rather than a terminal threat to employment.

burgeoning

Beginning to grow or increase rapidly in size

A pertinent example is the burgeoning field of AI ethics and system maintenance, which has emerged entirely due to the development of these technologies, providing high-skilled employment for thousands of professionals who oversee the responsible deployment of such tools.

inconceivable

Impossible to imagine or believe to be true

New technologies historically drive the creation of roles that were previously inconceivable, requiring unique human attributes like strategic decision-making and emotional intelligence.

proactive

Creating or controlling a situation by causing change

I believe that through proactive reskilling initiatives, the integration of artificial intelligence will foster a more dynamic and productive global economy.

reskilling

Teaching employees new skills for a different job

I believe that through proactive reskilling initiatives, the integration of artificial intelligence will foster a more dynamic and productive global economy.

legitimate

reasonable and acceptable

While I accept that parents have legitimate reasons for wanting to stay in contact with their children, I largely agree that those under twelve should not have a smartphone of their own.

inappropriate

not suitable for a particular person or situation

With an internet connection, a child can come across violent or inappropriate material, be contacted by strangers or be drawn into online arguments with classmates.

parental controls

settings that let parents limit what a child can see or do on a device

Even when parental controls are installed, determined children often find ways around them.

voluntarily

by choice, without being forced

Games and video apps are designed to hold attention for as long as possible, and a nine-year-old has very little ability to stop voluntarily.

reassurance

something that makes a person feel less worried

A basic handset that can only make calls and send text messages provides the same reassurance without the distractions and risks of the internet.

supervised

watched over by an adult or someone responsible

Some families also allow supervised use of a shared tablet at home, which lets children learn digital skills in a controlled setting rather than alone in their bedroom.

delaying

making something happen at a later time

In conclusion, I believe that delaying smartphone ownership until around the age of twelve is a wise policy for most families.

extraterrestrial

originating or existing outside the planet Earth

Those who support reaching out to extraterrestrial civilisations often emphasise the immense intellectual rewards such interaction could offer.

prudent

acting with or showing care for the future

This essay will examine both perspectives and argue that remaining silent is the more prudent course of action.

unprecedented

never having happened or existed in the past

leapfrog

to improve or advance by passing over others

For instance, the SETI Institute has historically used radio telescopes to listen for signals, and proponents suggest that sending messages could accelerate a collaborative exchange of knowledge that would leapfrog centuries of human progress.

neutralised

rendered ineffective or harmless by some force

If an alien civilisation possesses significantly superior technology, they may view Earth as a resource to be exploited or a threat to be neutralised.

disparate

essentially different in kind and not comparable

A historical parallel can be seen in human exploration on Earth, where encounters between civilisations with disparate technological levels have frequently resulted in the subjugation or destruction of the less advanced group.

subjugation

the action of bringing someone under total control

A historical parallel can be seen in human exploration on Earth, where encounters between civilisations with disparate technological levels have frequently resulted in the subjugation or destruction of the less advanced group.

existential

relating to existence or the survival of life

In summary, while the allure of contacting extraterrestrial life is compelling from a scientific standpoint, the existential risks are too significant to ignore.

infringement

the action of breaking the terms of rights

While proponents argue this practice is necessary for the evolution of digital services, opponents contend that it represents an unacceptable infringement on individual privacy.

contingent upon

subject to chance or dependent on something else

From this perspective, the seamless integration of technology into daily life is contingent upon the availability of user data to fuel machine learning algorithms.

systematic erosion

the gradual and planned destruction of something

Conversely, many argue that this practice facilitates the systematic erosion of privacy.

pertinent

relevant or applicable to a particular matter

A pertinent example of this is the Cambridge Analytica scandal, where personal data was harvested without explicit consent to influence political sentiment.

compromised

weakened or put in a dangerous situation

Such incidents demonstrate that when corporations prioritise profit over data protection, the trust between the service provider and the consumer is fundamentally compromised, leading to profound societal concerns.

paramount

more important than anything else in importance

In summary, while the optimisation of services through data collection is a clear advantage of modern technology, the preservation of privacy remains a paramount concern.

civil liberties

the rights of citizens to political freedom

I believe that strict regulations are required to ensure that technological progress does not come at the cost of civil liberties.

human error

a mistake made by a person rather than by a machine

There is little doubt that most road accidents are caused by human error.

misjudge

to form a wrong opinion or estimate about something

Drivers become tired on long journeys, check their phones at traffic lights, misjudge speed or drive after drinking alcohol.

automated vehicles

cars that can drive themselves without human control

In theory, then, a road network dominated by automated vehicles could see far fewer serious collisions, and emergency services and hospitals would benefit as a result.

collisions

accidents in which vehicles hit each other or an object

In theory, then, a road network dominated by automated vehicles could see far fewer serious collisions, and emergency services and hospitals would benefit as a result.

unresolved

not yet settled or answered

Legal questions are also unresolved: if a driverless car injures a pedestrian, it is not clear whether the owner, the manufacturer or the software designer is responsible.

liability

legal responsibility for something, especially damage or injury

Nevertheless, the change should be gradual, with careful testing, clear laws on liability and investment in infrastructure, rather than a rush to remove human drivers before the technology is proven in every situation.

infrastructure

the basic systems a country needs, such as roads and networks

Nevertheless, the change should be gradual, with careful testing, clear laws on liability and investment in infrastructure, rather than a rush to remove human drivers before the technology is proven in every situation.

gradual

happening slowly over a period of time

Nevertheless, the change should be gradual, with careful testing, clear laws on liability and investment in infrastructure, rather than a rush to remove human drivers before the technology is proven in every situation.

obsolete

no longer produced or used as being outdated

Some argue that e-books will inevitably render paper books obsolete, whereas others maintain that physical volumes possess enduring value.

unparalleled

having no equal in quality or extent

E-books have revolutionised reading habits by offering unparalleled portability and instant access to vast digital libraries.

logistical

relating to the complex organisation of large operations

For instance, the widespread adoption of platforms like Kindle has enabled millions of readers in remote areas to access educational resources that were previously unavailable due to logistical constraints.

tactile

connected with the sense of touch

Conversely, paper books endure because of the unique tactile experience and emotional connection they provide to readers.

artefacts

objects made by human beings of historical interest

Beyond personal enjoyment, physical books serve as tangible historical artefacts that do not rely on electricity or proprietary software to function.

proprietary

relating to an owner or ownership of something

Beyond personal enjoyment, physical books serve as tangible historical artefacts that do not rely on electricity or proprietary software to function.

intimacy

a close, familiar, and usually affectionate connection

I believe that the tactile intimacy and permanence of printed works ensure they will maintain a significant place in society for generations to come.

coexist

to exist at the same time or place

The two mediums serve different purposes and will likely coexist, catering to different preferences and contexts.

mitigate

to make something less severe or harmful

For instance, the development of Golden Rice, which is fortified with vitamin A, demonstrates how bioengineering can mitigate malnutrition in developing nations where rice is a staple food source.

staple food

a basic food eaten regularly by many people

For instance, the development of Golden Rice, which is fortified with vitamin A, demonstrates how bioengineering can mitigate malnutrition in developing nations where rice is a staple food source.

longitudinal

involving study over a very long period

Furthermore, critics argue that the lack of extensive longitudinal studies leaves the potential allergenicity or toxicological effects of consuming these foods uncertain.

allergenicity

the capacity to cause an allergic reaction

Furthermore, critics argue that the lack of extensive longitudinal studies leaves the potential allergenicity or toxicological effects of consuming these foods uncertain.

resilience

the ability to recover quickly from difficulties

The primary advantage of genetically modified crops lies in their enhanced resilience and increased nutritional content.

bioengineering

using biological science to create new products

For instance, the development of Golden Rice, which is fortified with vitamin A, demonstrates how bioengineering can mitigate malnutrition in developing nations where rice is a staple food source.

cross-pollination

transfer of pollen between different plant types

There is apprehension that cross-pollination between modified plants and wild relatives might lead to the emergence of herbicide-resistant weeds, effectively disrupting local ecosystems.

oversight

the process of watching or supervising something

A cautious approach, governed by rigorous scientific oversight and transparent regulation, is essential to ensure that the benefits of this technology do not come at the cost of ecological stability or public health.

pervasive

spreading widely throughout an area or a group

streamlined

made more efficient and effective by removing waste

In summary, while technological tools have undoubtedly streamlined logistical processes, they have simultaneously introduced profound challenges regarding focus and personal wellbeing.

intricacy

the quality of being complex or detailed

While some argue that these developments have provided unparalleled convenience, others contend that they have introduced a new layer of intricacy to human life.

repository

a place where things are stored or kept

Furthermore, the internet serves as a vast repository of knowledge, making information retrieval near-instantaneous.

perpetual

never ending or changing; occurring repeatedly or constantly

Conversely, many suggest that the same tools have created a sense of perpetual obligation.

cognitive overload

a state where the brain receives too much information

Additionally, the sheer volume of data generated daily can lead to cognitive overload, making it difficult to discern relevant information from digital noise.

curate

to select, organise, and present information or content

A clear example of this is the rise of social media, where the pressure to curate a digital persona and the endless stream of notifications often detract from genuine human connection and mental clarity.

household chores

regular jobs done to keep a home clean and running

If robots eventually take over most household chores, I believe this would be a largely positive change, although it carries some risks that should not be ignored.

disproportionately

to a degree that is unfairly large compared with others

Housework takes up several hours a week in most homes, and this burden still falls disproportionately on women in many societies.

transform

to change something completely, usually for the better

Robots could also transform the lives of people who struggle with physical tasks.

admittedly

used to accept that something is true before giving another view

There are, admittedly, drawbacks.

conscious effort

a deliberate attempt to do something

As long as families make a conscious effort to keep basic practical skills alive, the gains in free time and independence would be substantial.

substantial

large in amount or importance

As long as families make a conscious effort to keep basic practical skills alive, the gains in free time and independence would be substantial.

independence

the ability to live without relying on others

As long as families make a conscious effort to keep basic practical skills alive, the gains in free time and independence would be substantial.

hereditary

passed from parents to offspring through genes

The primary benefit of genetic engineering lies in its capacity to eradicate hereditary diseases and improve human longevity.

manifest

to become clear or appear as a symptom

By precisely editing the genome, scientists can potentially eliminate debilitating conditions such as cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease before they manifest.

molecular

relating to the smallest unit of chemical substances

This capability to refine human health at a molecular level signifies a monumental shift in our ability to combat suffering.

irreversible

impossible to change back to a previous state

Conversely, the danger stems from the potential for irreversible ecological disruption and the emergence of uncontrollable bio-engineered pathogens.

pathogens

microorganisms that can cause various human diseases

Conversely, the danger stems from the potential for irreversible ecological disruption and the emergence of uncontrollable bio-engineered pathogens.

debilitating

causing someone to become very weak or infirm

By precisely editing the genome, scientists can potentially eliminate debilitating conditions such as cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease before they manifest.

unpredictable

impossible to know what will happen in future

While the medical advantages are undeniable, the unpredictable nature of manipulating life at its core makes it a substantial threat if oversight is insufficient.

proliferation

a rapid increase in the number of something

The rapid proliferation of digital communication tools has fundamentally altered how individuals interact with one another.

detrimental

tending to cause harm or negative consequences

While some argue that these advancements foster global connectivity, I firmly believe that modern communication technology has detrimental impacts on the depth and quality of human social interactions.

superficial

lacking depth or genuine emotional significance

Digital communication often replaces genuine emotional connection with superficial interactions.

curated

carefully selected and presented to create impression

This shift can lead to a sense of emotional detachment, as users become accustomed to curated digital personas instead of authentic engagement.

phubbing

ignoring someone present to focus on a phone

This phenomenon, often referred to as 'phubbing', signals to others that the digital content is more important than the person sitting in front of them.

eroding

gradually wearing away or destroying something valuable

A clear example is observed in restaurants or cafes, where groups of friends frequently spend more time scrolling through their mobile phones than participating in conversation, thereby eroding the sense of community and shared presence that strengthens relationships.

mediums

the means or channels through which information travels

In summary, the reliance on technological mediums for communication significantly weakens the fabric of human connections.

authenticity

the quality of being genuine and real

This shift can lead to a sense of emotional detachment, as users become accustomed to curated digital personas instead of authentic engagement.

deceive

to make someone believe something that is not true

As banking, shopping and government services move online, criminals have found new ways to deceive people, and older adults are often their main targets.

warning signs

signals that something may be wrong or dangerous

They may not recognise the warning signs that younger users notice instantly, such as a slightly misspelled web address or an unusual request for a password.

fraudsters

people who cheat others to get money

Secondly, people of this generation were often brought up to trust official letters and polite callers, and fraudsters exploit this by pretending to be from a bank, the tax office or even a grandchild in trouble.

exploit

to use a situation or weakness unfairly for your own benefit

Secondly, people of this generation were often brought up to trust official letters and polite callers, and fraudsters exploit this by pretending to be from a bank, the tax office or even a grandchild in trouble.

sophisticated

clever and complicated in the way it works

Finally, scams themselves have become more sophisticated.

workshops

meetings where people learn by doing practical activities

Libraries and community centres could run free, regular workshops where older people learn to spot fake messages and practise what to do if they are unsure.

convincing

making people believe something is true

In conclusion, older people are targeted because they are newer to technology and more trusting, while scams grow ever more convincing.

anonymous

with a name that is not known or not shown

Others insist that the freedom to remain anonymous is essential.

accountable

responsible for your actions and expected to explain them

If every account were linked to a real identity, users would be accountable for their words, and many would think twice before posting something cruel or untrue.

rumours

stories that spread without being confirmed as true

Fake accounts are also used to spread rumours and to make a small group of opinions appear widely shared.

wrongdoing

illegal or dishonest behaviour

Employees who reveal wrongdoing in their company, and citizens living under governments that punish criticism, may only feel able to speak if their names are hidden.

pseudonym

a false name used instead of a real one

Platforms could verify each user's identity privately while allowing them to display a pseudonym.

harassment

repeated behaviour that upsets or threatens someone

In cases of serious harassment or criminal activity, the courts could then require the company to reveal who is responsible.

vulnerable

easily hurt or harmed

This approach would protect vulnerable people while removing the sense that online abuse carries no risk.

kiosks

small machines or stands where customers can get a service

Touch-screen kiosks now take orders in fast-food restaurants, self-checkouts line the exits of supermarkets and many bank branches have replaced counters with machines.

supervise

to watch over a process to make sure it works properly

One employee can supervise several self-checkouts, so a supermarket can serve more customers with fewer staff and lower wage costs.

entry-level

suitable for people with little or no experience

Checkout and counter roles have traditionally offered flexible, entry-level work to students and parents, and these opportunities are steadily disappearing.

flexible

able to change easily to suit different needs

Checkout and counter roles have traditionally offered flexible, entry-level work to students and parents, and these opportunities are steadily disappearing.

efficiency

doing something well without wasting time or money

In conclusion, self-service technology brings efficiency and savings, but these gains come largely at the expense of vulnerable customers and workers.

at the expense of

causing harm or loss to someone or something

In conclusion, self-service technology brings efficiency and savings, but these gains come largely at the expense of vulnerable customers and workers.

recognise

to identify something because it has been seen before

When a scanner fails to recognise an item, the customer may still have to wait for an assistant, so the promised speed disappears.

regain

to get something back after losing it

This habit has several causes, but there are also practical steps that could help people regain their ability to concentrate.

notifications

messages on a phone that tell you something new has happened

Features such as endless scrolling, automatic playing of the next video and frequent notifications are intended to make it difficult to stop.

interruptions

things that stop an activity for a short time

Each new message or "like" provides a small reward, and over time the brain comes to expect these interruptions.

obliged

feeling that you must do something

Because messages arrive instantly, people feel obliged to reply instantly, whether the message comes from a friend, a colleague or a manager sending emails late in the evening.

non-essential

not completely necessary

Individuals can make simple changes, such as switching off non-essential notifications, keeping the phone in another room while studying and setting aside specific times to check messages.

temptation

the wish to do something, especially something you should not do

Schools could ban phones from classrooms, which removes temptation and allows pupils to focus on lessons.

deliberate

done on purpose

In conclusion, constant phone checking results from deliberate app design and social pressure to respond immediately.

estrangement

the state of being alienated or separated from someone

For example, professional networking sites and messaging applications allow expatriates to remain integrated within their home communities, ensuring that distance does not necessarily lead to estrangement.

substantive

having a firm basis in reality and importance

For instance, the prevalence of 'likes' and short comments often replaces substantive dialogue, leading to a superficial form of engagement where individuals feel informed about others' lives without truly understanding their internal states.

performative

done for the sake of appearances rather than sincerity

Ultimately, unless digital communication is supplemented by meaningful physical presence, it risks reducing human interaction to a series of hollow, performative exchanges.

expatriates

people living outside their native country for work

For example, professional networking sites and messaging applications allow expatriates to remain integrated within their home communities, ensuring that distance does not necessarily lead to estrangement.

inadequate

lacking the quality or quantity required for tasks

In my opinion, while social media is an efficient tool for logistical communication and keeping in touch, it is an inadequate substitute for deep, personal connection.

supplemented

added to something to complete or enhance it

Ultimately, unless digital communication is supplemented by meaningful physical presence, it risks reducing human interaction to a series of hollow, performative exchanges.

inherent

existing in something as a permanent essential attribute

Conversely, critics argue that digital interactions lack the emotional depth inherent in face-to-face communication.

terrestrial

relating to the Earth rather than outer space

The debate regarding whether governments should prioritise space exploration or allocate those funds to terrestrial concerns remains a contentious issue.

unjustifiable

not able to be shown to be right

While some assert that the costs are unjustifiable given the hardships faced by many on Earth, others argue that venturing into the cosmos is necessary for the advancement of our species.

catalysts

substances or events that cause rapid change

Conversely, supporters of space exploration contend that these projects are catalysts for critical technological progress.

meteorological

relating to the study of weather and atmosphere

Research conducted for space missions often leads to breakthroughs that benefit life on Earth, such as advanced satellite communications, meteorological monitoring, and medical imaging technologies.

depletion

reduction in the number or quantity of something

Furthermore, as the planet faces the threat of resource depletion, the potential to mine asteroids or establish colonies on other planets offers a long-term insurance policy for humanity.

endeavour

an attempt to achieve a goal or objective

In my opinion, while the immediate needs of our population must not be ignored, the pursuit of space exploration is an essential endeavour.

evolution

the gradual development of something into something better

Progress in this field is not a luxury but a fundamental component of human evolution and survival.

misallocation

the act of distributing resources in an incorrect way

The debate regarding whether space exploration represents a misallocation of global resources or a fundamental necessity for human progress remains contentious.

finite

having limits or bounds in size or extent

Furthermore, as planetary resources become increasingly finite, the ability to harvest minerals from asteroids or establish colonies elsewhere serves as an essential contingency for the long-term survival of the human species.

contingency

a future event that is possible but uncertain

Furthermore, as planetary resources become increasingly finite, the ability to harvest minerals from asteroids or establish colonies elsewhere serves as an essential contingency for the long-term survival of the human species.

indispensable

absolutely necessary and impossible to do without

The development of satellite technology, which is now indispensable for monitoring climate change and global weather patterns, serves as a testament to the practical value gained from these missions.

ingenuity

the quality of being clever, original, and inventive

By fostering technological ingenuity and safeguarding our future through scientific discovery, space travel remains an essential endeavour.

precautions

actions taken to avoid a possible problem

This essay will explain why this is happening and argue that it is largely a positive development, provided some sensible precautions are taken.

automatically

without needing a person to do anything

A smartphone automatically uploads every picture to an online account, so people do not need to do anything to save them.

insurance policies

contracts that pay money if something goes wrong

Documents such as passports, insurance policies and bills can be scanned in seconds and found later by typing a single word, which is far quicker than searching through drawers.

scanned

copied into digital form using a machine or phone

Documents such as passports, insurance policies and bills can be scanned in seconds and found later by typing a single word, which is far quicker than searching through drawers.

hacked

entered illegally by someone using a computer

If a password is forgotten, a company closes or an account is hacked, years of memories could disappear.

hard drive

a device for storing computer data

It is therefore wise to keep a second copy on a separate hard drive and to print the photographs that matter most.

depend on

to need something in order to continue

This is a positive trend overall, as long as people do not depend on one service alone.

exacerbate

make a problem or bad situation much worse

By concentrating financial gains among a small elite and restricting access to vital tools for the underprivileged, technology has exacerbated existing inequalities.

chasm

a profound difference or division between two things

I believe that technological progress is a primary driver behind the widening chasm between the wealthy and the impoverished, as it disproportionately rewards those with existing capital and advanced expertise.

entrenching

establishing something so firmly that it cannot change

For instance, the rise of e-commerce giants has decimated traditional retail jobs while funnelling immense wealth into the hands of a few tech-savvy entrepreneurs, further entrenching the financial divide.

marginalised

treated as insignificant or peripheral to society

Access to high-speed internet, expensive hardware, and specialised digital training is often restricted to those who can afford it, leaving marginalised groups behind.

stratification

the arrangement of something into different social layers

In essence, while innovation drives human development, it currently functions as a mechanism that amplifies economic stratification.

equitably

in a fair and impartial manner for all

Addressing this imbalance requires systemic intervention to ensure the benefits of progress are distributed more equitably across all strata of society.

affluent

having a great deal of money or wealth

For example, students in affluent districts frequently benefit from advanced educational technology that prepares them for high-paying roles, whereas their counterparts in poorer areas suffer from a lack of resources, effectively limiting their future earning potential and perpetuating cycles of poverty.

seamless

smooth and continuous without any apparent obstacles

While traditional methods like letters and landline telephony once limited the reach and frequency of exchanges, contemporary platforms have made connectivity seamless.

ubiquity

the state of being found everywhere at once

However, the ubiquity of digital discourse has introduced concerns regarding the quality of human engagement.

discourse

written or spoken communication or formal debate

However, the ubiquity of digital discourse has introduced concerns regarding the quality of human engagement.

nuance

a subtle difference in meaning or expression

superficiality

lack of depth or genuine emotional significance

A clear example of this is the increasing trend of individuals preferring digital chats over physical meetings, which can lead to a sense of superficiality in friendships and a decline in social skills.

robust

strong and healthy or unlikely to fail

This constant accessibility ensures that social and professional networks remain robust and dynamic.

democratisation

making something accessible and available to everyone

The primary benefit of an online-only model is the democratisation of knowledge.

marginalising

treating a group as insignificant or peripheral

Conversely, the total migration to digital platforms risks marginalising those without the resources to participate.

digital divide

the gap between those with and without internet

If these physical locations are abolished, a significant portion of the population will face increased social isolation and a widening digital divide, as they may lack the necessary hardware or high-speed connectivity to access these online-only resources.

social fabric

the complex structure of relationships within a society

In summary, while the transition to virtual libraries offers remarkable gains in efficiency and reach, it risks undermining the social fabric that physical libraries maintain.

hybrid approach

a method combining two different types of systems

Therefore, maintaining a hybrid approach is essential to ensure that the progress of technology does not come at the expense of social equity.

upgrade

to replace something with a newer or better version

People who upgrade regularly point to real advantages.

noticeable

easy to see or notice

New models often have faster processors, better cameras and longer battery life, which can make a noticeable difference to someone who edits photos or works while travelling.

top-of-the-range

the most expensive and best in a group of products

The most obvious is cost: a top-of-the-range phone can cost as much as a month's rent, and replacing it every year adds up to a considerable sum over a decade.

considerable

large in size or amount

The most obvious is cost: a top-of-the-range phone can cost as much as a month's rent, and replacing it every year adds up to a considerable sum over a decade.

adequate

good enough for a particular need

In addition, the improvements between one model and the next are often minor, and a three-year-old device is perfectly adequate for messages, browsing and video calls.

discarded

thrown away because it is no longer wanted

Phones contain metals that are mined at great expense to the planet, and many discarded devices end up in landfill rather than being recycled.

landfill

a place where rubbish is buried in the ground

Phones contain metals that are mined at great expense to the planet, and many discarded devices end up in landfill rather than being recycled.

convenience

the quality of making something easy or saving effort

The most obvious benefit is convenience.

limited eyesight

the inability to see clearly

Someone with limited eyesight can hear the news, make phone calls and check the weather without reading a screen, and an older person who has fallen can call for help even if they cannot reach a phone.

wake word

a word that makes a voice assistant start listening to a command

These devices are designed to listen constantly for a wake word, and many people feel uncomfortable knowing that a microphone is always active in their living room.

commanding tone

a way of speaking that gives orders

A second concern is that children may come to rely on the assistant for every answer, or speak to it in a rude, commanding tone that carries over into how they treat people.

Streamline

To make a system or process more efficient.

I am quite fond of gadgets because they streamline my daily routine significantly.

Formative years

The early years of life when character develops.

While some digital engagement is fine, they should be encouraged to prioritise outdoor activities or face-to-face interactions to ensure they maintain a healthy balance in their formative years.

Real-time

Happening immediately as something else is occurring.

Many schools have transitioned to paperless classrooms, meaning students spend their entire morning interacting with educational software to complete assignments and collaborate on group projects in real-time.

Paperless

Operating entirely through digital rather than physical documents.

Many schools have transitioned to paperless classrooms, meaning students spend their entire morning interacting with educational software to complete assignments and collaborate on group projects in real-time.

Productivity tools

Software designed to help people manage their tasks.

I rely heavily on productivity tools like Notion to organise my schedule and keep track of my freelance projects.

glued to my screen

spending a large amount of time looking at computers

It is pretty much constant because I am glued to my screen from morning until evening.

integrated

combined together to form a functioning, whole system

From simple things like online shopping and browsing social media to more complex activities such as coding, video editing, or even managing personal finances, computers have integrated themselves into almost every facet of our daily routines.

proficient

highly skilled or competent at doing a specific activity

I would consider myself quite proficient, especially with creative software suites.

software suites

a collection of computer programs that work well together

I would consider myself quite proficient, especially with creative software suites.

troubleshooting

solving serious problems for a product or computer system

I have spent years mastering tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, but I am also comfortable with basic troubleshooting and managing cloud-based storage systems to keep my digital files organised and secure.

mundane

very ordinary and therefore not interesting or exciting

As artificial intelligence advances, robots will likely take over mundane chores, providing us with more leisure time and potentially transforming fields like healthcare through precise robotic surgery and automated elderly assistance.

streamlining

making a process simpler and more effective for use

Beyond simple cleaning, I look forward to using smart kitchen assistants that could precisely measure ingredients or manage cooking times, effectively streamlining my meal preparation process after a long workday.

autonomous

able to operate or control itself without outside help

Autonomous vehicles have the potential to eliminate human error, such as fatigue or distraction, making motorway travel significantly safer and far less stressful for passengers on extended trips.

delegate

to give a particular job to someone else instead

Actually, I would welcome the idea if it meant I could delegate tedious domestic responsibilities to a machine.

clock in

To reach a specific amount of time spent doing something

Honestly, I probably clock in about two hours a day, though it fluctuates depending on my workload.

fluctuates

To change or vary frequently in size or amount

Honestly, I probably clock in about two hours a day, though it fluctuates depending on my workload.

minimalist

Characterised by extreme simplicity and using very few details

My profiles are relatively minimalist, containing just my job title, educational background, and a few personal interests.

guarded

Cautious and careful about sharing personal information with others

I prefer to keep my private life fairly guarded, so I avoid posting my residential address or any sensitive financial details online.

prevalence

The fact of something being very common or widespread

What really bothers me is the prevalence of curated perfection, which often makes people feel inadequate about their own lives.

vital

absolutely necessary or extremely important for something to succeed

It is absolutely vital for my daily routine, primarily because I rely on digital tools for both my professional tasks and staying connected with family.

heavy-duty

designed to withstand hard use or perform intense work

While I need a computer for heavy-duty writing or complex projects, my phone is my go-to device for quick communication, browsing the internet, and managing my banking while I am on the move.

game-changer

an event or item that significantly alters a situation

They have been a total game-changer for my productivity, as they help me block out ambient background noise whenever I need to concentrate in busy coffee shops or while commuting on the train.

cumbersome

large, heavy, and difficult to carry or use comfortably

I find them quite cumbersome to wear, and they often give me a headache after only a few minutes, so I prefer sticking to traditional screens for my entertainment and gaming.

ubiquitous

present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time

The most significant shift is the transition towards ubiquitous connectivity and artificial intelligence.

sparingly

Doing something only in small amounts or infrequently.

I actually make calls quite sparingly these days because instant messaging is so convenient.

intrusive

Causing disruption or annoyance by being unwelcomed or uninvited.

Sending a quick message is far less intrusive and allows me to convey information without interrupting the other person's schedule.

hash out

To discuss something in detail to reach an agreement.

It is much more efficient to hash out the logistics verbally rather than waiting for a long thread of messages to ping back and forth.

logistics

The detailed coordination of a complex operation or task.

It is much more efficient to hash out the logistics verbally rather than waiting for a long thread of messages to ping back and forth.

binge-watching

Watching multiple episodes of a television program in succession.

We usually spend at least an hour on the line during our weekend calls, discussing everything from our professional challenges to the latest series we have both been binge-watching recently.

go-to

The most reliable or favoured person or thing available.

It is my go-to method for casual check-ins or whenever I need to share specific details like an address that is easier to read.