computer literacy: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Formal, Semi-formal, Educational
Quick answer
What does “computer literacy” mean?
The basic knowledge and skills required to use computers and related technology effectively.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The basic knowledge and skills required to use computers and related technology effectively.
The ability to understand, operate, and communicate using computers, software, and digital tools, including fundamental concepts like file management, internet navigation, word processing, and critical evaluation of digital information.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference. The term is identical and equally common. Spelling of related words (e.g., 'programme' vs. 'program') may follow regional conventions.
Connotations
Slightly more institutional/educational in UK context; slightly more corporate/workplace-focused in US, but overlap is vast.
Frequency
Equally frequent in both varieties, with a peak in educational and HR contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “computer literacy” in a Sentence
[possessive] computer literacy (e.g., the students' computer literacy)computer literacy in [area] (e.g., computer literacy in the workplace)computer literacy among [group] (e.g., computer literacy among seniors)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “computer literacy” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The government aims to computer-literacy the population. (Rare/forced)
- We need to upskill staff to become computer literate.
American English
- The program seeks to computer-literacy the workforce. (Rare/forced)
- Schools are working to make students computer literate.
adverb
British English
- He works computer-literately. (Extremely rare/unnatural)
- N/A
American English
- She completed the task computer-literately. (Extremely rare/unnatural)
- N/A
adjective
British English
- She is highly computer-literate.
- A computer-literate workforce is essential.
American English
- He is very computer-literate.
- Computer-literate employees are in demand.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
A key requirement for most office jobs, often listed in job descriptions and assessed during hiring.
Academic
A learning outcome or prerequisite for students, part of university induction programmes and research methodology.
Everyday
Discussed in contexts like helping older relatives, applying for jobs, or participating in modern society.
Technical
Used as a baseline metric in ICT education and policy, distinct from advanced fields like computer science.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “computer literacy”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “computer literacy”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “computer literacy”
- Using it as a countable noun (e.g., 'He has a good computer literacy' – INCORRECT; 'He has good computer literacy' – CORRECT).
- Confusing it with 'programming literacy' or 'coding skills'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are closely related and often used interchangeably. However, 'digital literacy' is a broader, more modern term that can include critical thinking about online content, social media, and digital ethics, while 'computer literacy' often focuses more on operational skills with computers and software.
Yes, through practical tests (e.g., creating a document, managing files, sending an email with an attachment), standardized assessments like the IC3 or ECDL, or self-reported surveys. It is often measured on a spectrum from basic to advanced.
No. While historically PC-centric, the concept now encompasses using smartphones, tablets, cloud services, common applications, and understanding fundamental concepts like internet safety and data privacy across all digital devices.
It promotes social inclusion (e.g., video calls with family), access to services (online banking, medical appointments), lifelong learning, and mental stimulation, helping to combat isolation and maintain independence.
The basic knowledge and skills required to use computers and related technology effectively.
Computer literacy is usually formal, semi-formal, educational in register.
Computer literacy: in British English it is pronounced /kəmˈpjuːtə ˈlɪt(ə)rəsi/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəmˈpjuːt̬ɚ ˈlɪt̬ɚəsi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[Not a phrasal verb/idiom; no direct equivalent]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Literacy' means being able to read and write. 'Computer Literacy' means being able to 'read' (understand) and 'write' (operate) computers.
Conceptual Metaphor
LITERACY IS A TOOL FOR NAVIGATION (Computer literacy is a passport to the digital world).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the BEST synonym for 'computer literacy' in a modern educational context?