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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand familiar computer terms whose meanings have shifted or carry more than one sense.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis older episode traces several everyday computer words, from mouse and cursor to search engines and unwanted messages. Technology has changed since it aired, so the useful focus here is how ordinary words acquire specialized meanings—and how one label can have both benign and harmful uses.
Cultural note: “Google” is commonly used as a verb for searching online, though in formal writing “search online” can be more neutral. “Hacker” is ambiguous: it can mean a skilled computer enthusiast or someone who breaks into systems. The latter is a serious allegation, so name the specific conduct when accuracy matters.
Keep exploringA familiar word like “mouse” can take on a completely new job when technology changes.
Phrase guide · 3 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
A brand name that is also widely used as a verb.
Meaning
Search for information about a topic using an online search engine.
Tone & use
Common in casual speech. In formal writing, “search online” avoids using a brand name as a verb.
Example
“Before the meeting, I Googled the unfamiliar term so I could follow the discussion.”
Meaning
Search online for information about a particular person.
Tone & use
Informal. Be mindful of privacy and verify information; search results can be incomplete or misleading.
Example
“The recruiter looked up the public portfolio the applicant had shared rather than relying on unrelated personal results.”
Recognize an ambiguous label and describe conduct precisely.
Meaning
A person with advanced computer skills; in security contexts, it may mean someone who accesses systems without permission.
Tone & use
The word has both positive and negative senses. Specify “security researcher” or “unauthorized intruder” when the distinction matters.
Example
“The company hired an ethical hacker to test its system with permission.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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