University Lusfona of Cape Verde

Course: Computer Engineering

COMPUTER COLLOCATIONS

Mastering computer collocations is a vital step toward English fluency. In the modern world,
we interact with technology constantly; knowing which words naturally “cluster” together
prevents your speech from sounding robotic or awkward. By learning these common pairings,
you reduce language anxiety and communicate technical concepts with the precision of a native
speaker.

 Have you ever struggled to describe a technical issue because you weren’t sure which
verb to use with your PC?

 Do you find yourself repeating the word “use” for every interaction you have with
technology?

 Are you looking to sound more professional and natural when discussing IT or daily
office tasks?

Mastering Collocations for Talking About Technology and Gadgets: An In-Depth Guide

Hey friends! If you're into tech or just want to sound more fluent when chatting about gadgets
and devices, you're in the right place. Today, I’ll walk you through the essential collocations,
that is, common word pairings—that make discussing technology smooth and natural. Whether
you're writing an email, chatting with friends, or giving a presentation, knowing these
collocations will elevate your language and make your conversations more professional and
engaging.
But why focus on collocations? Well, mastering these word pairings helps you to speak and
write more fluently, avoid sounding awkward or overly literal, and boosts your overall
confidence when discussing complex topics like smartphones, computers, or the latest tech
innovations. So, if you’re ready, let’s dive into the world of collocations for talking about
technology and gadgets,by the end, you’ll have an arsenal of phrases to impress your friends
and colleagues alike.

Understanding Collocations in Technology and Gadgets

What Are Collocations?

Collocations are words that naturally go together, creating familiar and correct pairings. They
are essential in making your speech or writing sound authentic and fluent because they reflect
how native speakers actually use language. In the context of technology and gadgets,
collocations help you describe devices, features, and actions more accurately.

Why Are Collocations Important for Talking about Technology?

 They improve clarity and precision.
 They make your language sound natural.
 They help you communicate technical ideas effortlessly.
  They enable your speech or writing to flow smoothly, avoiding awkward or incorrect
combinations.

Essential Collocations using COMPUTER as a Noun

Verbs for Starting and Stopping

We rarely just say“open” or “close” a computer. We use specific verbs to describe the process
of power management.

 Turn on / Power up: Pressing the button to start the machine. Example: I usually turn
on my computer at 8:00 AM to start the workday.

 Boot up: The internal process the computer goes through to load the operating
system. Example: My laptop takes forever to boot up because it has too many startup
programs.

 Shut down: Properly closing all programs and turning off the power. Example: Always
remember to shut down your computer before leaving the office.

 Restart / Reboot: Turning the computer off and back on immediately, often to fix a
glitch. Example: If the software freezes, you might need to reboot your computer.

 Put to sleep / Hibernate: Keeping the computer in a low-power state. Example: I put
my computer to sleep during my lunch break.

Adjectives to Describe Performance

Native speakers use specific adjectives to describe how well (or poorly) a machine is
functioning.

 Powerful / High-end: A computer with very fast processing and expensive

parts. Example: Video editors need a powerful computer to render 4K footage.

 Sluggish / Slow: A computer that is not responding quickly. Example: My old desktop
is getting sluggish; it’s time for an upgrade.

 State-of-the-art: Using the latest and most advanced technology. Example: The
research lab is equipped with state-of-the-art computers.

 Portable / Handheld: Describing the physical size and mobility. Example: Modern
handheld computers are now as fast as many older desktops.

Common Technical Problems

When things go wrong, these are the standard collocations used in IT and daily life.

 Crash: When the computer suddenly stops working or shuts off. Example: I lost my
unsaved work because my computer crashed.

 Freeze / Hang: When the screen stops moving and you cannot click
anything. Example: The computer froze right in the middle of the presentation.
  Act up: An informal way to say the computer is behaving strangely or
malfunctioning. Example: My computer has been acting up lately; it keeps
disconnecting from the Wi-Fi.

 Infect: When a virus or malware enters the system. Example: Be careful not to
download suspicious files, or you might infect your computer.

Common Collocations with COMPUTER as a Noun Adjunct (Compound Nouns)

In English, “computer” often acts like an adjective to modify another noun.

Professional and Social Skills

 Computer literacy: The ability to use computers and technology efficiently. Example:
Basic computer literacy is a requirement for almost every office job today.

 Computer savvy: (Adjective phrase) Being very knowledgeable about how to use
technology. Example: Ask Sarah for help; she’s very computer savvy.

 Computer programmer: A person who writes code for software. Example: He hired a
computer programmer to build a custom app for his business.

Hardware and Environment

 Computer lab: A room full of computers, usually in a school or library. Example: The
students are working on their assignments in the computer lab.

 Computer peripheral: External devices like mice, keyboards, or printers. Example: I

need to buy some new computer peripherals for my home office setup.

 Computer screen / monitor: The visual display unit. Example: Staring at a computer
screen all day can cause eye strain.

Master Summary: Key Computer Collocations

Part of
Collocation Quick Meaning
Speech

Boot up Verb Phrase To start the operating system

Crash Verb To stop working suddenly

Sluggish Adjective Moving or responding slowly

Computer literacy Compound Noun Skill in using computers

 Master Summary: Key Computer Collocations

Part of
Collocation Quick Meaning
Speech

Restart Verb To turn off and on again

High-end Adjective Expensive and high performance

Common Mistakes: Natural vs Unnatural

To avoid “translation-ese,” avoid literal translations from your native language. Follow the
native usage below.

Do Not Say Say This

Open the computer

(when referring to Switch on/Turn on the computer
power)

The computer is died The computer crashed / The computer died (informal)

Make the computer start Boot up the computer

I am at the front of the

I am at the computer / I am on the computer
computer

A strong computer A powerful computer

“I tried to turn on my laptop this morning, but it was incredibly sluggish. After it finally
managed to boot up, the system froze while I was checking my emails. I decided to restart the
machine, but it crashed again. I think a computer virus might have infected my system, so I
need to call someone who is more computer savvy than I am.”

Frequently Asked Questions about Computer Collocations

Do I say “on the computer” or “at the computer”?

Both are correct but have different meanings.

1. “At the computer” refers to your physical location (sitting in a chair by the desk).
2. “On the computer” refers to the activity you are doing using the device (e.g., “I am
working on the computer”).

What is the difference between “reboot” and “restart”?

In modern everyday English, they are used interchangeably.

1. “Reboot” is slightly more technical (referring to the BIOS/loading process), while

2. “Restart” is the standard term found in the Windows or Mac menu.

Can I say “open a computer” if I am talking about hardware?

Yes. You “open” a computer when you are physically taking the case apart with a screwdriver to
fix the internal parts. If you just want to use it, you “turn it on.”

Is “PC” the same as “computer”?

“PC” stands for Personal Computer. In common usage, “computer” is the general term, whereas
“PC” often specifically refers to a Windows-based computer as opposed to a Mac.

How do I describe a computer that is very old and useless?

Native speakers often use the collocation “obsolete computer” or “outdated hardware.”
Informally, people might call a very old computer a “brick” if it no longer works.

25 Computers Collocations in Context

Read carefully this text where you will find 25 computers collocations in context and then
complete the quiz.

I’m teaching my grandmother how to use a computer. First I showed her how to start
up and shut down the computer. Then, I helped her get online or access the internet so that
she can check her e-mail. She quickly learned how to write and send messages, reply to an e-
mail and forward an e-mail (send a complete e-mail that you received to a new person), but it
was a little hard for her to remember how to attach a file to an outgoing message.

We tried to log into her bank account online, but the bank’s website was down (the website
was not functional, or was not online). There was a notice on the home page (the main page of
the website) that they were doing some scheduled maintenance on the system – so we’ll try
again tomorrow.

This afternoon, I’ll teach her how to use a search engine. I think she’ll really
enjoy surfing/browsing the web (exploring the internet) and using social media. If she needs
to do something more advanced, like burn a CD (put files from a computer onto a CD), then I
can do that for her.
She’s a little bit afraid of pressing the wrong key and accidentally deleting an important
file, but I told her that we can always recover the file from the recycling bin. I also explained
that if the computer freezes or locks up (stops moving/functioning), she can
simply restart/reboot the computer.

It’s also a good idea for her to back up her files (make an extra copy of the information) so that
she doesn’t lose her data if the computer crashes (the computer breaks) and can’t be repaired.
I installed a program that periodically runs scans for viruses and spyware to ensure that her
computer hasn’t been infected.

Quiz

Complete the following quiz with the right computers collocation in context:

1. After my computer was stolen, I was so glad I had backed up / locked up / started up all my
data on an external hard drive.

2. Could I use your computer for a minute? I’d like to check / look / verify my e-mail.

3. Do I need to attach / implement / install a special program to be able to view this video?

4. I burned / locked / scanned you a CD of some of my favorite music.

5. I can’t check the event schedule online because the conference website seems to be off /
down / frozen.

6. If you want more space on your hard drive, you should crash / delete / shut down old files
that you no longer need.

7. I’m trying to log into / start up / reboot my account, but I can’t remember the password.

8. More and more people are getting / scanning / surfing the web on their cell phones
nowadays.

9. My computer down / freezes / infected when I have too many programs open at the same
time.

10. Never open attachments from people you don’t know – they could disease / infect / lock
up your computer with a virus.

11. The boss wants everyone to close / shut down / turn out their computers before leaving
work.

12. You forgot to add / annex / attach the file to your message.

Answer Key

Complete the following quiz with the right computers collocation in context:

1. After my computer was stolen, I was so glad I had backed up all my data on an external hard
drive.

2. Could I use your computer for a minute? I’d like to check my e-mail.

3. Do I need to install a special program to be able to view this video?

4. I burned you a CD of some of my favorite music.

5. I can’t check the event schedule online because the conference website seems to be down.

6. If you want more space on your hard drive, you should delete old files that you no longer
need.

7. I’m trying to log into my account, but I can’t remember the password.

8. More and more people are surfing the web on their cell phones nowadays.

9. My computer freezes when I have too many programs open at the same time.

10. Never open attachments from people you don’t know – they could infect your computer
with a virus.

11. The boss wants everyone to shut down their computers before leaving work.

12. You forgot to attach the file to your message.

IELTS Vocabulary for Technology (C1): Academic Words & Collocations

Master C1-level technology vocabulary for IELTS with advanced academic terms, natural
collocations, and practical applications. Expert guide for high-band performance across all
skills.

IELTS Vocabulary for Technology (C1): Academic Words & Collocations

Essential C1 Technology Vocabulary Categories

1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Core AI Terminology

Algorithm /ˈælɡərɪðəm/

 Definition: Step-by-step computational procedure for solving problems or performing

tasks

 Academic Context: "Sophisticated algorithms enable machine learning systems to

process vast datasets efficiently."

 Common Collocations:

o "complex algorithm" | "optimization algorithm" | "predictive algorithm"

o "algorithm development" | "algorithm performance" | "algorithm bias"

Artificial Intelligence (AI) /ˌɑːrtɪˈfɪʃəl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/

 Definition: Computer systems capable of performing tasks typically requiring human

intelligence

 Academic Context: "Artificial intelligence applications are revolutionizing healthcare

diagnostics and treatment protocols."
  Common Collocations:

o "artificial intelligence capabilities" | "AI-powered systems" | "AI

implementation"

o "artificial intelligence ethics" | "AI advancement" | "AI integration"

Machine Learning /məˈʃiːn ˈlɜːrnɪŋ/

 Definition: AI subset enabling computers to learn and improve from experience

without explicit programming

 Academic Context: "Machine learning models demonstrate remarkable accuracy in

pattern recognition and predictive analysis."

 Common Collocations:

o "machine learning applications" | "supervised learning" | "deep learning

networks"

o "machine learning algorithms" | "learning model training" | "predictive

learning"

Neural Network /ˈnʊrəl ˈnetwɜːrk/

 Definition: Computing system inspired by biological neural networks, fundamental to

deep learning

 Academic Context: "Advanced neural networks can process complex visual data with
human-level accuracy."

 Common Collocations:

 "convolutional neural network" | "neural network architecture" | "deep neural

network"

 "artificial neural network" | "network optimization" | "network training"

Natural Language Processing (NLP) /ˈnætʃərəl ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ ˈproʊsesɪŋ/

 Definition: AI branch enabling computers to understand, interpret, and generate human

language

 Academic Context: "Natural language processing technologies facilitate real-time

translation and sentiment analysis."

 Common Collocations:

 "NLP applications" | "language processing algorithms" | "computational

linguistics"

 "text processing" | "speech recognition" | "semantic analysis"

Advanced AI Concepts

Automation /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/
  Definition: Technology-enabled process execution without human intervention

 Academic Context: "Industrial automation increases production efficiency while

reducing operational costs."

 Common Collocations:

 "process automation" | "workflow automation" | "automation technologies"

 "intelligent automation" | "automation implementation" | "robotic process

automation"

Cognitive Computing /ˈkɑːɡnətɪv kəmˈpjuːtɪŋ/

 Definition: Computing systems that simulate human thought processes and decision-
making

 Academic Context: "Cognitive computing systems enhance human capabilities rather

than replacing human judgment."

 Common Collocations:

 "cognitive computing platforms" | "cognitive technologies" | "cognitive

analytics"

 "cognitive systems" | "human-cognitive collaboration" | "cognitive automation"

Predictive Analytics /prɪˈdɪktɪv æˈnælɪtɪks/

 Definition: Statistical techniques analyzing current and historical data to predict future
outcomes

 Academic Context: "Predictive analytics enables organizations to anticipate market

trends and customer behavior patterns."

 Common Collocations:

o "predictive analytics models" | "predictive modeling" | "forecasting analytics"

o "data-driven predictions" | "predictive insights" | "analytics algorithms"

2. Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity

Network and Communication Technology

5G Technology /faɪv dʒiː tekˈnɑːlədʒi/

 Definition: Fifth-generation wireless technology providing ultra-high-speed, low-

latency connectivity

 Academic Context: "5G technology enables real-time applications like autonomous

vehicles and remote surgery."

 Common Collocations:

o "5G deployment" | "5G infrastructure" | "5G networks"

o "5G connectivity" | "5G capabilities" | "5G implementation"

Cloud Computing /klaʊd kəmˈpjuːtɪŋ/

 Definition: Internet-based computing services providing scalable resources and

applications

 Academic Context: "Cloud computing architectures offer unprecedented scalability

and cost-effectiveness for enterprises."

 Common Collocations:

 "cloud infrastructure" | "cloud services" | "cloud deployment"

 "hybrid cloud" | "cloud migration" | "cloud security"

Internet of Things (IoT) /ˈɪntərnˌet əv θɪŋz/

 Definition: Network of interconnected physical devices collecting and exchanging data

 Academic Context: "Internet of Things applications transform smart cities through

integrated sensor networks."

 Common Collocations:

 "IoT devices" | "IoT ecosystem" | "IoT connectivity"

 "IoT applications" | "smart IoT solutions" | "IoT data analytics"

Edge Computing /edʒ kəmˈpjuːtɪŋ/

 Definition: Distributed computing bringing data processing closer to information

sources

 Academic Context: "Edge computing reduces latency and improves response times for
time-critical applications."

 Common Collocations:

o "edge computing infrastructure" | "edge devices" | "edge processing"

o "distributed computing" | "edge analytics" | "edge deployment"

Data Management and Analytics

Big Data /bɪɡ ˈdeɪtə/

 Definition: Extremely large datasets requiring specialized tools for analysis and
processing

 Academic Context: "Big data analytics reveals patterns and insights impossible to
detect through traditional analysis methods."

 Common Collocations:

o "big data analytics" | "data processing" | "data visualization"

o "data-driven insights" | "massive datasets" | "data mining techniques"

Blockchain Technology /ˈblɑːktʃeɪn tekˈnɑːlədʒi/

  Definition: Decentralized digital ledger technology ensuring secure, transparent
transactions

 Academic Context: "Blockchain technology provides immutable record-keeping

systems for supply chain transparency."

 Common Collocations:

o "blockchain applications" | "distributed ledger" | "blockchain security"

o "cryptocurrency blockchain" | "blockchain implementation" | "decentralized

systems"

Data Mining /ˈdeɪtə ˈmaɪnɪŋ/

 Definition: Process of extracting meaningful patterns and insights from large datasets

 Academic Context: "Advanced data mining techniques identify consumer behavior

patterns for targeted marketing strategies."

 Common Collocations:

o "data mining algorithms" | "pattern recognition" | "data extraction"

o "mining techniques" | "data discovery" | "knowledge extraction"

3. Cybersecurity and Digital Protection

Security Fundamentals

Cybersecurity /ˈsaɪbərsɪˌkjʊrəti/

 Definition: Protection of digital systems, networks, and data from cyber threats and
attacks

 Academic Context: "Robust cybersecurity measures are essential for protecting

sensitive information in digital environments."

 Common Collocations:

o "cybersecurity protocols" | "security infrastructure" | "cyber threat protection"

o "cybersecurity measures" | "digital security" | "security frameworks"

Encryption /ɪnˈkrɪpʃən/

 Definition: Process of converting information into coded form to prevent unauthorized

access

 Academic Context: "Advanced encryption algorithms ensure data privacy during

transmission and storage."

 Common Collocations:

o "data encryption" | "encryption protocols" | "cryptographic techniques"

o "end-to-end encryption" | "encryption algorithms" | "secure encryption"

Firewall /ˈfaɪəwɔːl/
  Definition: Network security system monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing
traffic

 Academic Context: "Next-generation firewalls provide application-level protection

against sophisticated cyber threats."

 Common Collocations:

o "firewall protection" | "network firewall" | "firewall configuration"

o "advanced firewall" | "firewall security" | "firewall implementation"

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) /tuː ˈfæktər ɔːˌθentɪˈkeɪʃən/

 Definition: Security process requiring two different authentication factors for user
verification

 Academic Context: "Two-factor authentication significantly reduces unauthorized

access risks in digital systems."

 Common Collocations:

o "multi-factor authentication" | "authentication protocols" | "secure

authentication"

o "identity verification" | "authentication methods" | "access control systems"

Advanced Security Concepts

Penetration Testing /ˌpenəˈtreɪʃən ˈtestɪŋ/

 Definition: Authorized simulated cyber attack testing system security vulnerabilities

 Academic Context: "Regular penetration testing identifies potential security

weaknesses before malicious exploitation."

 Common Collocations:

o "security testing" | "vulnerability assessment" | "ethical hacking"

o "penetration testing tools" | "security auditing" | "threat simulation"

Malware /ˈmælwer/

 Definition: Malicious software designed to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized

access to systems

 Academic Context: "Advanced malware detection systems use machine learning to

identify emerging threat patterns."

 Common Collocations:

o "malware protection" | "malicious software" | "malware detection"

o "ransomware attacks" | "virus protection" | "malware prevention"

4. Digital Transformation and Innovation

Transformation Concepts

Digital Transformation /ˈdɪdʒɪtəl ˌtrænsfərˈmeɪʃən/

 Definition: Integration of digital technology across all business areas, changing

operations and value delivery

 Academic Context: "Digital transformation requires organizational culture shifts

alongside technological implementation."

 Common Collocations:

o "digital transformation strategy" | "business transformation" | "organizational

transformation"

o "transformation initiatives" | "digital modernization" | "technology adoption"

Digitization /ˌdɪdʒɪtəˈzeɪʃən/

 Definition: Process of converting analog information into digital format

 Academic Context: "Comprehensive digitization efforts preserve cultural heritage

while improving accessibility."

 Common Collocations:

o "document digitization" | "digitization process" | "digital conversion"

o "data digitization" | "digitization projects" | "digital archiving"

Innovation Ecosystem /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən ˈiːkoʊsɪstəm/

 Definition: Interconnected network of organizations, resources, and relationships

fostering innovation

 Academic Context: "Thriving innovation ecosystems require collaboration between

universities, startups, and established companies."

 Common Collocations:

o "innovation networks" | "collaborative ecosystems" | "technology ecosystems"

o "startup ecosystems" | "innovation hubs" | "entrepreneurial ecosystems"

Emerging Technologies

Augmented Reality (AR) /ˈɔːɡmentəd riˈæləti/

 Definition: Technology overlaying digital information onto real-world environments

 Academic Context: "Augmented reality applications enhance educational experiences

through interactive visualizations."

 Common Collocations:

o "AR applications" | "augmented reality experiences" | "immersive technology"

 o "AR development" | "reality enhancement" | "mixed reality systems"

Virtual Reality (VR) /ˈvɜːrtʃuəl riˈæləti/

 Definition: Computer-generated simulation creating immersive three-dimensional

environments

 Academic Context: "Virtual reality training programs provide safe, controlled

environments for skill development."

 Common Collocations:

o "VR technology" | "virtual environments" | "immersive experiences"

o "VR applications" | "virtual simulations" | "VR development"

Quantum Computing /ˈkwæntəm kəmˈpjuːtɪŋ/

 Definition: Computing technology using quantum mechanical phenomena for

information processing

 Academic Context: "Quantum computing promises exponential performance

improvements for specific computational problems."

 Common Collocations:

o "quantum algorithms" | "quantum processors" | "quantum systems"

o "quantum computing research" | "quantum technology" | "quantum

applications"

5. Technology Integration and Applications

Integration Concepts

API Integration /eɪ piː aɪ ˌɪntəˈɡreɪʃən/

 Definition: Application Programming Interface connecting different software

applications

 Academic Context: "Seamless API integration enables efficient data exchange between
disparate systems."

 Common Collocations:

o "API development" | "interface integration" | "system connectivity"

o "API management" | "integration platforms" | "software integration"

Interoperability /ˌɪntərˌɑːpərəˈbɪləti/

 Definition: Ability of different systems and organizations to work together effectively

 Academic Context: "Healthcare system interoperability facilitates comprehensive

patient care coordination."

 Common Collocations:

o "system interoperability" | "data interoperability" | "platform compatibility"

 o "interoperable systems" | "seamless integration" | "cross-platform compatibility"

Scalability /ˌskeɪləˈbɪləti/

 Definition: System's capability to handle increased workload without performance

degradation

 Academic Context: "Cloud infrastructure provides horizontal scalability for growing

application demands."

 Common Collocations:

o "system scalability" | "scalable architecture" | "performance scalability"

o "scalable solutions" | "infrastructure scaling" | "capacity scaling"

Academic Collocations for Technology Essays

Technology Implementation:

 "implement cutting-edge technology"

 "deploy advanced systems"

 "integrate innovative solutions"

 "adopt emerging technologies"

 "leverage technological capabilities"

Impact Assessment:

 "technological advancement accelerates"

 "digital transformation reshapes"

 "automation revolutionizes processes"

 "artificial intelligence enhances"

 "connectivity facilitates communication"

Challenges and Solutions:

 "address cybersecurity concerns"

 "mitigate technological risks"

 "overcome implementation barriers"

 "ensure digital equity"

 "balance automation with employment"

Future Trends:

 "emerging technology trends"

 "next-generation innovations"
  "technological convergence"

 "digital evolution continues"

 "transformative potential realizes"

Speaking Part 3 Expressions

Discussing Technology Impact:

 "Technology has fundamentally transformed..."

 "The proliferation of digital devices..."

 "Artificial intelligence applications demonstrate..."

 "Cybersecurity measures become increasingly..."

 "Digital transformation initiatives require..."

Expressing Opinions:

 "In my assessment, technology..."

 "From a technological perspective..."

 "Considering digital advancement..."

 "The implications of AI development..."

 "Regarding cybersecurity concerns..."

Making Predictions:

 "Technological trajectories suggest..."

 "Future innovations will likely..."

 "Digital evolution indicates..."

 "Emerging trends point toward..."

 "Technological convergence may..."

Vocabulary Integration Strategy:

 Use 3-4 C1 technology terms per essay

 Include natural collocations in topic sentences

 Demonstrate precise usage in supporting examples

 Avoid overloading with technical terminology

Sample Paragraph Integration: "The proliferation of artificial intelligence applications across
various sectors demonstrates both transformative potential and significant implementation
challenges. Advanced machine learning algorithms enable predictive analytics capabilities that
revolutionize decision-making processes, while sophisticated automation technologies
streamline operational efficiency. However, organizations must address cybersecurity concerns
and ensure robust data protection protocols when deploying AI-powered systems in sensitive
environments."

Common Usage Mistakes and Corrections

Precision Errors

❌ Incorrect: "AI technology is very smart and can think like humans." ✅ Correct: "Artificial
intelligence systems demonstrate sophisticated pattern recognition capabilities that simulate
human cognitive processes."

❌ Incorrect: "The internet makes everything connected to everything." ✅ Correct: "IoT

networks enable seamless connectivity between heterogeneous devices and systems."

❌ Incorrect: "Computers are getting more powerful with new technology." ✅

Correct: "Computational capabilities continue expanding through quantum computing research
and advanced processor architectures."

Collocation Mistakes

❌ Incorrect: "digital conversion," "technology implementation," "cyber protection" ✅

Correct: "digital transformation," "technology deployment," "cybersecurity measures"

❌ Incorrect: "AI intelligence," "machine automation," "data extraction" ✅ Correct: "artificial

intelligence," "process automation," "data mining"

Context Appropriateness

❌ Informal: "Tech stuff is changing everything nowadays." ✅ Academic: "Technological

innovations are fundamentally transforming contemporary society."

❌ Vague: "Technology helps people do things better." ✅ Precise: "Digital tools enhance
productivity through workflow optimization and automated processes."

Practice Exercises and Applications

Vocabulary Building Exercises

Forum discussions with the word(s) "computer" in the title:

Collocations for "computer"

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word "computer" in
context.

computer

1. [a fast, an old, a new, a home] computer

2. a [work, personal, laptop, desktop, gaming] computer
3. a computer for [work]
 4. my computer is (going) slow
5. my computer [has crashed, won't start up, isn't working]
6. why is my computer so slow?
7. [restart, reboot, boot up] your computer
8. have you tried [restarting] your computer?
9. turned his computer [on, off]
10. turn [off] your computer
11. need to [get, buy] a new computer
12. learn to use a computer
13. connect your computer to the [screen, monitor, projector, network]
14. [build, make, put together] a computer
15. ask him to [repair, fix, troubleshoot] my computer
16. program the computer (to)
17. does not [understand, like, trust] computers
18. did my [homework, assignment, project] on the computer
19. [designed, animated] by computer
n as adj

1. [design, distribute, program, play] computer games

2. a computer [screen, keyboard, program, virus]
3. a computer programmer
4. studied computer science
5. computer [systems, parts, hardware]
6. computer [programming, repair]
7. computer [motherboards, chips, processors]
8. computer [brands, makes, models]
9. computer animation

Collocations with computing

These are words often used in combination with computing.

computing capacity
The kinetic theory approach is a formidable task, even when one is armed with present
computing capacity.
computing equipment
Computing equipment/access would also be useful to process data.
computing infrastructure
This separation allows business processes to be designed without requiring major changes to be
made to the underlying computing infrastructure.
computing machine
Consider the formal definition of an operational semantics for a nontrivial computing machine.
computing technique
In parallel with these developments, another powerful computing technique was recruited for
protein structure calculation : molecular dynamics simulation.

Common Collocations for Describing Gadgets and Devices

1. Hardware and Software

 Collocation Explanation Example

“I need to install new software on my

Install software To set up a program on a device
laptop.”

“The phone’s firmware was updated

Update firmware To upgrade the device’s code
overnight.”

“This tablet can run multiple

Run applications To operate or work with apps
applications simultaneously.”

“He’s trying to troubleshoot network

Troubleshoot issues To identify and fix problems
issues.”

Pro Tip: Using “install,” “update,” “run,” and “troubleshoot” with gadgets makes your
descriptions specific and professional.

2. Describing Devices and Technology Features

Collocation Explanation Example

“The camera captures high-definition

High definition Clear, sharp image quality
videos.”

“I prefer wireless connections for my

Wireless connection No physical cables needed
devices.”

Duration a device can operate

Battery life “This phone has excellent battery life.”
without charging

“The monitor features a full HD digital

Digital display Screen showing digital images
display.”

“The latest smartphone comes with advanced

Advanced features Modern, innovative functions
features like face recognition.”

3. Actions and Functions

Collocation Explanation Example

“Please power off the device before

Power on / off Turning the device on or off
cleaning.”
 Collocation Explanation Example

Establishing a link between

Connect to “Connect your laptop to the Wi-Fi network.”
devices

Charge the
Replenishing power “I need to charge my tablet before the trip.”
battery

To synchronize information “Make sure to sync your contacts with the

Sync data
across devices cloud.”

Tips for Success with Technology Collocations

 Practice regularly: Use these collocations in your daily conversations or writing

exercises.
 Use real-life examples: Imagine scenarios, like setting up a new device, to reinforce
your learning.
 Incorporate synonyms: Diversify your language with variations like “connect” instead
of “link,” or “power up” instead of “turn on.”

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake Correct Approach Explanation

“Install” is mainly for software;

Using install with
Use “set up” or “assemble” hardware setup often involves
hardware
“assemble” or “connect.”

Saying run for all “Run” is good, but “load” and

Specify with “load” or “execute”
processes “execute” fit certain contexts better.

Use “battery” for internal power

Confusing battery and
source and “power” for general Be specific to avoid confusion.
power
operation

Variations and Synonyms You Can Use

 Instead of “wireless connection,” say “cordless link” or “Wi-Fi access.”

 Replace “install software” with “set up programs” or “configure applications.”
 Swap “battery life” with “power duration” or “operating time.”
 Use “upgrade firmware” or “flash the device” as alternatives.

The Importance of Collocations in Talking About Technology

Knowing these collocations boosts your confidence and fluency, making your tech
conversations sound more natural and professional. It helps you understand technical texts
better and enables you to describe gadgets accurately, whether for a report, presentation, or
casual chat. Mastering the right combinations ensures your message is clear and prevents
embarrassing mistakes or misunderstandings, especially when dealing with technical jargon.

Practice Exercises

1. Fill-in-the-blank

Complete the sentences with the correct collocation:

a) Before using the new device, you should ____ the firmware.
b) I love the ____ display on my new smartphone.
c) Make sure to ____ your data regularly to avoid losing important files.
d) The printer is not ____; I think it needs a new ink cartridge.

2. Error Correction

Identify and correct the mistakes:

a) She installed the hardware to the laptop.

b) Please connect your smartphone with the Wi-Fi network.
c) I need to troubleshoot my battery.
d) The app is running smoothly on my computer.
3. Identification

Match the collocations to their definitions:

 Power off
 Sync data
 Wireless connection
 Troubleshoot issues
a) Establish a link between devices without cables.
b) Turn the device into the off position.
c) Identify and fix problems.
d) Synchronize information across multiple devices.

4. Sentence Construction

Create sentences using the collocations:

a) Install / update / firmware
b) High definition / digital display
c) Connect / charge / the battery
d) Advanced features / wireless connection