computer typesetting: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical, Formal
Quick answer
What does “computer typesetting” mean?
The process of arranging text and images on a page using computer software, as opposed to manual or mechanical typesetting.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The process of arranging text and images on a page using computer software, as opposed to manual or mechanical typesetting.
The entire technological workflow for producing documents in print or digital formats using computer-driven composition, including text formatting, graphic integration, and page layout. Also refers to the industry and craft built around this technology.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or spelling. Usage is identical in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties, with no special regional connotations.
Frequency
Equally common in professional publishing and technical contexts in both regions. Slightly archaic in general use, as the technology is now ubiquitous and often simply called 'desktop publishing' or 'layout'.
Grammar
How to Use “computer typesetting” in a Sentence
[Subject] uses/employs/adopted computer typesetting.Computer typesetting [verb: replaced/revolutionised/simplified] [object].The advent/rise of computer typesetting.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “computer typesetting” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The magazine was typeset on a computer.
- We need to computer-typeset this manuscript professionally.
American English
- The book was typeset on a computer.
- They computer-typeset the entire journal in-house.
adverb
British English
- The document was produced computer-typesettingly. [Highly unnatural; avoid]
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- It was a computer-typesetting pioneer.
- The computer-typesetting revolution began in the 1980s.
American English
- He worked for a computer-typesetting service.
- We saw a major shift in computer-typesetting technology.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Discussed in publishing, marketing, and print production companies regarding workflow efficiency and cost.
Academic
Used in studies of media history, graphic design, and the sociology of technology.
Everyday
Rare; a layperson might refer to 'formatting a document' or 'using a layout program'.
Technical
Core term in graphic design, typography, pre-press, and printing industries to specify the production method.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “computer typesetting”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “computer typesetting”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “computer typesetting”
- Using 'computer typing' (which implies data entry, not design).
- Confusing it with 'word processing', which is primarily for text creation, not professional layout.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Word processing focuses on creating and editing text. Computer typesetting (or desktop publishing) focuses on the visual design, layout, and typography of a complete page for professional publication.
Professional software includes Adobe InDesign, QuarkXPress, and LaTeX for academic papers. Simpler layout can be done in word processors, but that is not typically called 'computer typesetting' in a professional sense.
In historical or technical discussions, yes. In everyday language, it has been largely subsumed by terms like 'desktop publishing', 'digital layout', or simply 'layout', as the computer basis is now assumed.
It democratised publishing, drastically reduced costs and time, gave designers greater creative control, and led to the decline of traditional printing trades like typesetting and paste-up artists.
The process of arranging text and images on a page using computer software, as opposed to manual or mechanical typesetting.
Computer typesetting is usually technical, formal in register.
Computer typesetting: in British English it is pronounced /kəmˈpjuːtə ˈtaɪpˌsetɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəmˈpjuːt̬ɚ ˈtaɪpˌsetɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None specific to this term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'SETting type with a COMPUTER' instead of with metal or film.
Conceptual Metaphor
TYPESETTING IS CONSTRUCTION (building a page); THE COMPUTER IS A TOOL (replacing physical machinery).
Practice
Quiz
What did computer typesetting primarily replace?