computerphobe: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, slightly humorous
Quick answer
What does “computerphobe” mean?
A person who has a fear of or strong aversion to using computers.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who has a fear of or strong aversion to using computers.
More broadly, refers to an individual who actively avoids, distrusts, or is anxious about computer technology, often due to feeling intimidated, lacking confidence, or holding techno-skeptical views.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is equally understood but rarely used in either variety. No significant spelling or usage differences.
Connotations
Slightly more likely to be used humorously in British English.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both. The concept is more commonly expressed with phrases like 'technophobe' or 'not good with computers'.
Grammar
How to Use “computerphobe” in a Sentence
[Subject] is a computerphobe.[Subject], a self-described computerphobe, ...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “computerphobe” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [No standard verb form in use.]
American English
- [No standard verb form in use.]
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverb form in use.]
American English
- [No standard adverb form in use.]
adjective
British English
- She has computerphobe tendencies.
- His computerphobe attitude is holding the project back.
American English
- His computerphobe tendencies are obvious.
- She gave a computerphobe response to the new system.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used informally to describe a colleague or client resistant to new software or digital workflows.
Academic
May appear in social science papers discussing technology adoption, digital divides, or technostress.
Everyday
Used humorously among friends or family to describe someone who avoids computers.
Technical
Rarely used in technical contexts; 'low digital literacy' or 'resistant user' are preferred.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “computerphobe”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “computerphobe”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “computerphobe”
- Misspelling as 'computerphob' (dropping the 'e').
- Confusing with the more general 'technophobe'.
- Using it to describe mere incompetence rather than an active fear/aversion.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency word. The more common term is 'technophobe', which covers a broader fear of technology.
Informally, yes (e.g., 'computerphobe tendencies'), but it's non-standard. 'Technophobic' or 'computer-averse' are better adjectival choices.
A 'computerphile' or 'techie' – someone who loves and is enthusiastic about computers.
Not necessarily. It often describes a strong aversion or anxiety, which may lead to avoidance, but some computerphobes can use basic functions under duress.
A person who has a fear of or strong aversion to using computers.
Computerphobe is usually informal, slightly humorous in register.
Computerphobe: in British English it is pronounced /kəmˈpjuː.tə.fəʊb/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəmˈpjuː.t̬ɚ.foʊb/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[no direct idioms]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'computer' + 'phobe' (like fear). A computerphobe fears the computer.
Conceptual Metaphor
TECHNOLOGY IS A THREAT / FEAR OBJECT.
Practice
Quiz
What is the closest synonym for 'computerphobe' in formal writing?