cyber cafe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cyber cafe" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a type of business or establishment that offers internet access to customers for a fee. Example: "I needed to use the internet to finish my school project, so I went to the nearest cyber cafe and spent a few hours working there."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

The church soon exploited this to turn their ad-hoc coffee shop into a cyber cafe.

The Guardian - Tech

The club also has a fitness center, gathering rooms, cyber cafe and game room.

The Washington Post

Speakeasy started as a cyber cafe and has evolved into an Internet provider catering to a technologically sophisticated clientele.

The New York Times

Two years ago, I spent a night in a smoky Bagus Gran Cyber Cafe in Tokyo, which is a kind of no-tell motel for information consumption.

The New York Times - Magazine

STUDENTS working late hours in the Cyber Cafe, at Columbia's student union, apparently needed iTunes and document protection along with a soda and Snickers.

The New York Times

Cyberia, Britain's first cyber cafe (see left), was set up in 1994 on the ground floor of the EasyNet offices in Whitfield Street, central London.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Cyber cafes can be found in the larger towns.

The New York Times - Travel

Not Cyberias of course; just plain old cyber cafes.

The Guardian - Tech

Most cyber cafes are happy to hook you up using an Ethernet connection.

Independent

(Independent) Arrivederci, Cyber Cafes Hertz, which began offering mobile Wi-Fi to rental car customers abroad, expands to Italy.

The New York Times

The Gran Cyber Cafes in Tokyo are on high floors of buildings in dense, flashing commercial neighborhoods.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "cyber cafe", consider specifying its unique features, such as specialized software, gaming equipment, or community programs, to provide a more accurate picture to the reader.

Common error

While "cyber cafe" is widely understood, be mindful of your audience. In some regions or age groups, the term might be less familiar. Consider using "internet cafe" or briefly explaining the concept for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cyber cafe" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It identifies a specific type of business providing internet access and related services, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

10%

Travel

7%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cyber cafe" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a business that provides internet access to the public. Ludwig's AI analysis confirms its consistent use and broad understanding. While alternatives like "internet cafe" exist, "cyber cafe" remains a recognizable term, particularly in news and media contexts. Remember to be mindful of your audience and consider clarifying the term for those unfamiliar with it. Understanding its function, purpose, and register ensures effective communication when using the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Internet cafe

This is a more common and widely understood term for the same concept.

PC bang

This is a Korean term for a similar establishment, often focused on gaming.

Gaming center

This alternative emphasizes the gaming aspect, if applicable.

Internet access point

This focuses on the function of providing internet, less common as alternative.

Community technology center

This describes a more community-focused version of the concept.

E-sports arena

This emphasizes a place designed for competitive video games.

Digital hub

This is a modern and broad description for a space with technology access.

Online gaming center

This indicates a specialized center to play on line

LAN gaming center

This is an obsolete technology center

Broadband access point

This alternative is specialized for broadband internet

FAQs

What is the difference between a "cyber cafe" and an internet cafe?

The terms "cyber cafe" and "internet cafe" are generally used interchangeably to describe a place where people can pay to use computers with internet access. The term "cyber cafe" might imply a slightly more modern or technologically advanced setup, but the core service is the same.

What can I say instead of "cyber cafe"?

You can use alternatives like "internet cafe", "PC bang" (especially in Korean contexts), or a more general term like "community technology center" depending on the specific context.

Is it safe to use a "cyber cafe" for sensitive online activities?

Using a "cyber cafe" for sensitive activities like banking or accessing personal accounts carries risks. Public computers may have keyloggers or other malware. It's best to avoid such activities or use a VPN for added security. Always remember to log out and clear browsing history.

Are "cyber cafes" still common in the age of smartphones and home internet?

While less common than in the past, "cyber cafes" still exist, particularly in areas with limited home internet access or for travelers needing to use computers for specific tasks. They also sometimes cater to gamers or offer specialized services not easily replicated at home.