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ghosting-the-server

/ˈɡəʊst.ɪŋ ðə ˈsɜː.və/
IELTSAcademic
phrase

to stop responding to a server, device, or network without properly closing the connection. It is often used in technical or informal IT contexts.

  • The app was ghosting the server after login.
  • If it keeps ghosting the server, restart the service.
  • The client ghosted the server during the upload.

Adinary Nuance

Ghosting-the-server is more specific than disconnecting or logging off. It suggests an abrupt, silent stop, often without a proper close or error message. In IT writing, use it only if you want an informal, descriptive tone, not a formal one. A clearer formal choice is usually disconnect, drop the connection, or terminate the session.

In other languages

Vietnamese
ngắt kết nối
Spanish
desconectar
Chinese
断开连接
Japanese
切断する
Korean
연결을 끊다

Etymology

This phrase is a modern technical use of ghosting, which became common in internet culture in the 2010s. It compares silent disconnection to someone disappearing without notice.

Common phrases

ghosting the serverthe server got ghostedghosted during upload

Synonyms

Related words

Frequently asked questions

Is ghosting-the-server a formal phrase?
No, it sounds informal and technical. Use it in everyday IT talk, not formal reports.
What is the difference between ghosting-the-server and disconnecting?
Disconnecting is neutral. Ghosting-the-server suggests a sudden, silent, and incomplete stop.
Can I use ghosting-the-server in business writing?
Usually not in formal business writing. Use disconnect, terminate, or end the session instead.