digital
/ˈdɪdʒ.ɪ.təl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Using computers or electronic devices, especially to store, process, or send information. It can also mean shown as numbers on a screen instead of moving hands or paper.
- I keep all my notes in digital form.
- The shop has a digital payment system.
- My watch has a digital display.
Adinary Nuance
Digital is often used for things made with computers or electronics. It is different from electronic, which can be broader, and from online, which means connected to the internet. Use digital when the idea is about data, screens, or computer-based systems.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- kỹ thuật số
- Spanish
- digital
- Chinese
- 数字的
- Japanese
- デジタル
- Korean
- 디지털
Etymology
Digital comes from Latin digitus, meaning “finger” or “toe.” In English, it began to be used for computer and electronic technology in the mid-20th century.
Common phrases
digital agedigital technologydigital mediadigital display
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is digital the same as electronic?
- Not always. Digital is a type of electronic system that uses numbers and data.
- Is digital used in business writing?
- Yes. It is very common in business, technology, and academic writing.
- What is the difference between digital and online?
- Digital means computer-based or using data. Online means connected to the internet.
- Can digital describe a screen or watch?
- Yes. It can describe a display that shows numbers or text.