50+ Essential Technology Vocabulary Words for IELTS Writing & Speaking

In the IELTS exam, tech-related topics often come up in Writing and Speaking, so knowing the right vocabulary can boost your score. This post covers 50+ must-know technology words to help you sound more natural and confident. Let’s get started!

General Technology Phrases

1. cutting-edge technology = the latest and most advanced technology.
2. state-of-the-art = the most modern and advanced available technology.
3. technological advancements = progress or improvements in technology.
4. the digital age = the modern era dominated by technology and the internet.
5. the rise of artificial intelligence = the increasing use and development of AI in various fields.
6. the rapid pace of technological change = the fast development of new technologies.
7. a breakthrough in technology = a major discovery or development in technology.
8. the widespread use of technology = the common use of technology in daily life.
9. the dependence on technology = relying too much on technology for everyday tasks.
10. tech-savvy = being skilled or knowledgeable about modern technology.

Technology in Everyday Life

11. a double-edged sword = something that has both positive and negative effects.
12. revolutionized the way we live/work = completely changed our lifestyle or work processes.
13. digital literacy = the ability to use digital devices and the internet effectively.
14. bridging the digital divide = reducing the gap between people who have access to technology and those who don’t.
15. an integral part of daily life = something that is essential in everyday activities.
16. work remotely = to work from a location outside the office, often using digital tools.
17. the rise of social media = the increasing popularity and influence of social networking sites.
18. online learning platforms = websites or apps that offer education and training courses.
19. addicted to technology = excessively reliant on digital devices.
20. the impact of technology on communication = how technology has changed the way people interact.

Technology in IELTS Writing Task 2 (Advantages & Disadvantages)

21. enhances efficiency and productivity = technology helps people work faster and more effectively.
22. makes life more convenient = technology simplifies daily tasks.
23. leads to job automation = many manual jobs are replaced by machines or AI.
24. reduces human interaction = people communicate less face-to-face due to digital devices.
25. encourages a sedentary lifestyle = overuse of technology can lead to physical inactivity.
26. increases global connectivity = technology helps people connect across the world.
27. raises privacy concerns = the use of digital devices can lead to security and privacy issues.
28. cybercrime is on the rise = online crimes, such as hacking and fraud, are increasing.
29. online shopping has become the norm = most people prefer buying goods online rather than in physical stores.
30. a threat to traditional industries = some businesses struggle to compete with digital advancements.

Technology-Related Idioms for IELTS

1. ahead of the curve = being more advanced or innovative than competitors.
2. back to the drawing board = restarting a project or plan because the first attempt failed.
3. behind the times = being outdated or not keeping up with modern technology.
4. cutting-edge technology = the latest and most advanced technology.
5. hit the panic button = reacting too quickly or overreacting to a problem.
6. light years ahead = significantly more advanced in technology or development.
7. on the same wavelength = understanding or thinking in a similar way, often used in tech teamwork.
8. push someone’s buttons = to provoke or annoy someone, similar to how pressing a button triggers an action.
9. reinvent the wheel = to waste time creating something that already exists.
10. rocket science = something very complicated or difficult to understand.
11. silver bullet = a simple and effective solution to a complex problem.
12. state-of-the-art = the most modern and advanced available technology.
13. the nuts and bolts = the essential and practical details of a system or process.
14. throw a spanner in the works = to disrupt or ruin a plan, similar to how a spanner (wrench) can stop a machine from working.
15. upgrade one’s knowledge = learning new things to keep up with technology.
16. wired differently = thinking in a unique or unconventional way, often used for tech experts.
17. blow a fuse = to get very angry, like an electrical fuse blowing due to too much power.
18. a glitch in the system = a small problem or error in technology or processes.
19. byte the dust = a humorous way to say that a computer or technology has stopped working.
20. plugged in = being well-informed or up-to-date with the latest technology and trends.

10 common collocations related to Artificial Intelligence (AI) 

1. artificial intelligence system = a computer-based system that can perform tasks requiring human intelligence.
2. machine learning algorithms = programs that allow computers to learn from data and improve performance.
3. deep learning techniques = advanced AI methods that mimic human brain functions for decision-making.
4. neural network models = AI structures designed to process information like the human brain.
5. natural language processing = AI’s ability to understand and generate human language.
6. automation of tasks = using AI to perform repetitive tasks without human intervention.
7. AI-powered applications = software that uses artificial intelligence to enhance performance.
8. facial recognition technology = AI-based systems that identify people by analyzing facial features.
9. ethical concerns in AI = issues related to fairness, bias, and privacy in artificial intelligence.
10. AI-driven decision-making = the process where artificial intelligence is used to make strategic choices.

10 useful phrasal verbs related to technology 

1. browse the web = to look for information on the internet.
2. scroll through (social media/phone) = to move up or down on a screen to check content.
3. boot up (a computer/device) = to start a device or system.
4. shut down (a computer/system) = to turn off a device properly.
5. log in (to an account/system) = to enter a website or system using credentials.
6. log out (of an account/system) = to exit a website or system.
7. back up (files/data) = to create a copy of files to prevent data loss.
8. set up (a device/app) = to install or configure a new system.
9. plug in (a device) = to connect a device to electricity or another system.
10. keep up with (technology trends) = to stay updated with the latest technological developments.

IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic Technology

1. Do you often use technology in your daily life?

Yeah, I use it every day! I’m a YouTuber and content creator, so I spend a lot of time on my laptop and phone. I use different apps to edit videos, write scripts, and manage my social media. Honestly, I can’t imagine my life without technology!

2. What is your favorite piece of technology, and why?

Definitely my laptop! I can’t live without it because I do everything on it—editing videos, making thumbnails, answering emails, and uploading content. It’s like my office and my creative space in one device. If my laptop broke, I’d be lost!

3. How has technology changed the way people communicate?

It’s changed a lot! Now, people text and video call instead of meeting in person. We’re always connected, which is great, but sometimes it also makes people feel lonely because there’s less face-to-face interaction. Social media helps us stay in touch, but it’s not the same as real conversations.

4. Do you think older people have difficulties using modern technology?

Yeah, for sure! A lot of older people find smartphones and apps confusing. Some struggle with things like setting up accounts, remembering passwords, or using social media. But many of them are trying to learn, and some even take online classes or get help from younger family members.

5. What are some common technological devices people use today?

The most common one is the smartphone—people are pretty addicted to it! We use it for everything—texting, watching videos, shopping, and even working. Computers are also super important for work and study. Other popular gadgets are smartwatches, tablets, wireless earbuds, and home assistants like Alexa or Google Home.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topic Technology

Describe a piece of technology you use every day.

• You should say:
  • What it is
  • How you use it
  • How it has changed your life
• And explain why it is important to you.

Useful vocabulary

• rely on heavily = to depend on something a lot for support or assistance.
• thumbnails = small preview images used to represent videos, websites, or documents.
• interact with = to communicate or engage with others, usually through speaking, writing, or digital platforms.
• productive = able to complete tasks efficiently and effectively.
• notepad = a small notebook or digital tool used for writing down notes and ideas.
• stay connected = to keep in touch with people or information through communication tools.
• essential part = something that is absolutely necessary or very important.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Technology

1. How has technology changed the way people work compared to the past?

Oh, technology has changed work a lot! In the past, people had to go to an office or a workplace every day, but now, many people work from home or remotely. This gives them flexible hours, so they can choose when to work instead of following a strict 9-to-5 schedule.

Also, many manual jobs are now done by robots. For example, in factories, machines do the heavy lifting, and even in offices, AI can handle things like emails and customer service. Another thing is that communication has become much easier; people can send emails, have video calls, and use work apps to stay connected, no matter where they are.

2. Do you think people rely too much on technology these days?

Yes, I think so. People use technology for everything, even simple things! For example, many people use GPS for directions, even when they know the way. We also use calculators for basic math instead of doing it in our heads.

In daily life, people check their phones all the time, whether it’s for social media, news, or just entertainment. Even students rely a lot on Google and AI tools to do research instead of reading books or thinking for themselves. And when it comes to talking to people, many prefer texting or video calls instead of meeting face-to-face. So yeah, we’re definitely too dependent on technology!

3. What are some advantages and disadvantages of working remotely with technology?

There are definitely some great benefits to working remotely. First, it gives people flexible hours, so they don’t have to wake up early or stick to a strict schedule. It also means they can work from anywhere, whether it’s home, a café, or even while traveling. Another big plus is that it saves money – no need to spend on transport, office clothes, or eating out. Plus, without office noise and distractions, many people find it easier to focus and get more work done.

However, there are also some downsides. One big issue is that the line between work and personal life gets blurry—when you work from home, it’s hard to “switch off” from work. Also, remote workers have less social interaction, which can feel lonely at times. Besides, home can be full of distractions, like family members, pets, or even just the temptation to watch TV.