a computer whiz

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a computer whiz" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is exceptionally skilled with computers. Example: My nephew is a real computer whiz - he's a master at coding and creating websites.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Not a computer whiz?

The New York Times

"He's a computer whiz.

The New York Times

He seemed to have all the makings of a computer whiz.

The New York Times

For teenagers who want to be a tennis champ or a computer whiz, there are camps.

The New York Times

In current use, the slang term often refers to a computer whiz absorbed in technical arcana.

The New York Times - Magazine

The gang has included a computer whiz who sifts through registries for planes and boats, looking for likely targets.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Even a computer-whiz friend of the family was unable to figure it out.

The New York Times

He has been called a "viral marketing hotdog" by the New York Times, "the poster boy of guerilla media" by AlterNet and a "computer-whiz" by The New Yorker.

The Guardian

I still look at computers with awe and trepidation and had asked a computer-whiz friend to help me install some software on the one I had at home.

The New York Times

For Hem, thasperfect Sunday is a combeention of his kids and recalledon– maybe the park and a hike, rounded out by a delicious dinner on the grill.

TechCrunch

It had to do with my nine-year-old self's aspirations to be a 'computer whiz', but became hopelessly embarrassing after I turned ten.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a computer whiz" to describe someone who possesses exceptional skills and deep knowledge in various aspects of computing, not just basic computer literacy. Be sure to highlight the specific area of expertise if possible for more precise description.

Common error

While "a computer whiz" is widely understood, it might be too informal for academic papers or formal business reports. Opt for terms like "computer expert" or "IT specialist" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a computer whiz" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, typically referring to a person. It describes someone who has exceptional skills and knowledge related to computers. Ludwig confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a computer whiz" is a phrase used to describe someone highly skilled in computers. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral, it leans towards informal and should be replaced with more formal terms like "computer expert" or "IT specialist" in academic or professional contexts. There are numerous alternatives, such as "tech-savvy individual" or "programming guru", that can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

computer expert

A more general term, implying a high level of knowledge and skill in computer science.

software prodigy

Suggests exceptional talent and early mastery of software development.

tech-savvy individual

Emphasizes familiarity and ease with technology, rather than deep expertise.

programming guru

Specifically refers to someone highly skilled in computer programming.

coding master

Similar to programming guru, but with a slightly less formal tone.

digital native

Implies someone who has grown up with computers and technology, possessing innate skills.

IT specialist

Focuses on technical support and problem-solving within an IT infrastructure.

cybersecurity expert

Specifically refers to someone with expertise in protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats.

hardware hacker

Highlights expertise in modifying and optimizing computer hardware.

system administrator

Focuses on managing and maintaining computer systems and networks.

FAQs

How can I use "a computer whiz" in a sentence?

You can use "a computer whiz" to describe someone with exceptional computer skills. For example, "My sister is "a computer whiz" and can fix any problem with my laptop".

What are some alternatives to "a computer whiz"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "tech-savvy individual", "computer expert", or "programming guru".

Is "computer whiz" formal or informal?

"Computer whiz" is generally considered an informal term. In formal contexts, it's better to use terms like "computer expert" or "IT specialist".

What skills does "a computer whiz" typically possess?

A "computer whiz" typically possesses skills such as programming, software development, network administration, cybersecurity, and hardware troubleshooting.