computer-literate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "computer-literate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a good understanding of how to use computers and related technology effectively. Example: "In today's job market, being computer-literate is essential for most positions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Few seemed very computer-literate.

The New York Times - Magazine

This one's strictly for the computer-literate.

The Guardian - Tech

"In a few years, rural Zimbabwe will be computer-literate.

The New Yorker

They were computer-literate as far back as 1993.

The New York Times - Arts

Today even much younger, more computer-literate people are not finding jobs, as your article reported.

The New York Times

Building a website could even generate a youthful, computer-literate following.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

"He is computer literate.

The New York Times

"All employers expect graduates to be computer literate," says Isherwood.

The Guardian

"But it's my intention to become computer literate".

The New York Times

My son is 7 and he is extremely computer literate.

The New York Times

"They were computer literate enough to explain things to me.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing required job skills, use "computer-literate" to clearly indicate a candidate's proficiency in using computers for common tasks. Be sure to define what 'computer-literate' entails within the context of the role.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone is "computer-literate". When providing instructions or designing interfaces, consider users with varying levels of experience and provide alternatives or assistance for those less familiar with technology.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "computer-literate" functions as an adjective, typically used to describe a person who has sufficient knowledge and skill to use computers and related technology effectively. Ludwig's examples show it modifying nouns like "people", "students", and "generation".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "computer-literate" is a commonly used and grammatically correct adjective describing someone with sufficient computer skills. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is usable in written English to describe someone with a good understanding of how to use computers and related technology effectively. It appears most frequently in news and media sources and can be considered neutral in register. While alternatives such as "tech-savvy" or "digitally adept" exist, "computer-literate" remains a clear and widely understood term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

computer proficient

Synonymous, but without the hyphen.

competent with computers

Focuses on the ability to perform tasks effectively using computers.

tech-savvy

A more informal term for being knowledgeable and skilled in technology.

digitally adept

Highlights skill in navigating the digital world, implying comfort and competence with digital tools.

technologically proficient

Emphasizes a high level of skill and ease with technology, going beyond basic literacy.

digitally fluent

Suggests a deep understanding and ease of use with digital technologies, similar to fluency in a language.

skilled in computing

Focuses on having specific skills related to computing tasks.

versed in technology

Implies broad knowledge and understanding of technology in general.

familiar with computer systems

Highlights knowledge and understanding of how computer systems work.

has basic computer skills

Emphasizes a foundational level of ability to use computers.

FAQs

How to use "computer-literate" in a sentence?

You can use "computer-literate" to describe someone who is proficient in using computers. For example: "The job requires someone who is highly computer literate".

What's the difference between "computer-literate" and "tech-savvy"?

"Computer-literate" generally refers to basic competence in using computers, while "tech-savvy" implies a deeper understanding and enthusiasm for new technologies. Tech-savvy individuals are often early adopters and troubleshooters.

What can I say instead of "computer-literate"?

You can use alternatives like "digitally adept", "computer proficient", or "technologically proficient" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "computer-literate" or "computer literate"?

Both forms are acceptable, but "computer-literate" (with a hyphen) is more common, especially when used as an adjective before a noun (e.g., a "computer-literate" employee). "Computer literate" (without a hyphen) is also grammatically correct.