IELTS Vocabulary
IELTS Vocabulary: Technology — 20 Essential Words
The most important IELTS vocabulary for technology topics. Includes definitions, example sentences, and collocations for Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3.
Technology is one of the most common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3. These 20 words cover innovation, digital society, automation, and the impact of technology on daily life.
Key Words and Phrases
A new idea, method, or product that introduces significant change.
“Technological innovation has transformed the way people communicate.”
The use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human involvement.
“Automation in manufacturing has displaced many low-skilled workers.”
The gap between those who have access to digital technology and those who do not.
“The digital divide remains a significant challenge in developing economies.”
A rapid increase or spread of something.
“The proliferation of smartphones has changed how people consume information.”
A set of rules or instructions followed by a computer to solve a problem or make decisions.
“Social media algorithms determine which content users see first.”
Close monitoring of a person, group, or activity, typically by government or technology.
“Mass surveillance raises serious concerns about individual privacy.”
The state of relying on something too heavily.
“Over-dependency on technology has reduced people's ability to navigate without GPS.”
The ability to connect to the internet or to other devices.
“Global connectivity has enabled remote work and cross-border collaboration.”
To radically change an industry or sector by introducing a new technology or approach.
“Ride-sharing apps have disrupted the traditional taxi industry.”
No longer in use or relevant due to being replaced by something newer.
“Traditional print media risks becoming obsolete in the digital age.”
How to Use This Vocabulary in IELTS
- →In Writing Task 2, use "automation" and "proliferation" to discuss economic impacts of technology.
- →Avoid "technology" 5 times in one paragraph — replace with "digital tools", "these innovations", "such advances".
- →"Disruptive technology" is a useful set phrase: "Ride-hailing apps represent a disruptive technology that has fundamentally reshaped urban transport."
- →Pair "digital divide" with a solution: "Bridging the digital divide requires investment in both infrastructure and digital literacy programmes."
FAQs
What technology vocabulary is most common in IELTS?▼
The most frequently tested technology vocabulary includes: innovation, automation, surveillance, connectivity, the digital divide, proliferation, dependency, and algorithm. Focus on these for the highest return on your study time.
How do I use technology vocabulary in IELTS Speaking?▼
In Part 3, technology questions often ask about impact on society. Use phrases like "The proliferation of smartphones has..." or "Automation is increasingly disrupting..." to show a wide vocabulary range.
Test your IELTS vocabulary
Take our free 15-question vocabulary quiz to see how many Academic Word List words you already know.
Take the Vocab Test →Start Learning Free