At the A1 level, 'computing' is a big word that usually just means 'using a computer.' You might hear it in school when teachers talk about 'computing class.' It is the time when you learn how to use a mouse, type on a keyboard, and maybe play simple games. Think of it as 'computer time.' You don't need to know the hard science yet. Just remember that it is a noun that describes the activity of working with computers. For example, 'I have a computing lesson today.' It is similar to saying 'math' or 'music' class. It is a thing you do at school to learn about technology.
At the A2 level, you can start to see 'computing' as more than just a class. It is the word for the whole subject of computers. You might say, 'I am good at computing' if you know how to use the internet and write documents. You will also see it in phrases like 'computing skills.' This means you know how to use different programs. It is an uncountable noun, so you don't say 'a computing.' You use it to talk about the general idea of using technology to solve problems or do work. It's a useful word for talking about your hobbies or your school subjects in a more grown-up way.
At the B1 level, 'computing' begins to take on a more professional and technical meaning. You will encounter it in contexts like 'cloud computing' or 'mobile computing.' Here, it refers to the systems and the way information is moved around. You should understand that it includes both the machines (hardware) and the programs (software). You might use it to describe your career interests: 'I want to work in the computing industry.' It is a more formal and accurate word than just saying 'computers.' You can also use it to talk about the 'computing power' of a device, meaning how fast and strong it is at doing tasks.
At the B2 level, you should use 'computing' with precision. You understand it as the study and use of computers for processing and communicating information. You can distinguish it from 'computation' (the math part) and 'IT' (the business support part). You will see it in complex phrases like 'distributed computing' or 'pervasive computing.' You should be able to discuss the social and ethical impacts of computing, such as data privacy or the digital divide. At this level, 'computing' is a broad, academic, and professional term that describes a massive global industry and a vital scientific field. You use it to sound more sophisticated in discussions about technology.
At the C1 level, 'computing' is a nuanced term used in high-level academic and professional discourse. You understand the subtle differences between 'computing,' 'informatics,' and 'computer science.' You can discuss advanced topics like 'quantum computing' or 'edge computing' and explain their implications for future technology. You use the word to describe complex architectures and systems. Your vocabulary includes collocations like 'high-performance computing' and 'cognitive computing.' You are comfortable using the word in formal reports, academic papers, and technical presentations, where precision and a broad understanding of the field's history and future are required.
At the C2 level, your mastery of the word 'computing' is complete. You can use it to discuss the philosophical underpinnings of the field, such as the 'Church-Turing thesis' or the limits of 'biological computing.' You understand the term in its most abstract sense—as the transformation of information according to a set of rules. You can speak eloquently about the 'paradigm shifts in computing' and the 'democratization of computing resources.' You use the word with total confidence in any setting, from a casual chat about gadgets to a deep philosophical debate about the nature of intelligence and the future of the human-machine interface.

computing 30秒で

  • Computing is the broad field of using and studying computer technology for data processing and problem-solving in various professional and academic contexts.
  • It encompasses both physical hardware and logical software, acting as the foundation for modern digital communication and information management systems worldwide.
  • Commonly used in phrases like 'cloud computing' or 'computing power,' it describes the capacity and methodology of digital systems to perform complex tasks.
  • As an uncountable noun, it distinguishes the academic discipline of computer science from the simple act of using a physical computer device.

The term computing represents the vast and intricate field of using computer technology to complete tasks, process data, and solve complex problems. At its core, computing is not just about the physical machines we see on our desks; it is the systematic study of algorithmic processes that describe and transform information. This includes the theory, design, development, and application of both hardware and software. When people use the word computing, they are often referring to the activity of using a computer or the professional field dedicated to these technologies. It is a broad umbrella that covers everything from simple arithmetic performed by a calculator to the massive simulations of weather patterns conducted by supercomputers. In modern society, computing has become the backbone of almost every industry, from finance and healthcare to entertainment and education.

The Academic Perspective
In a university setting, computing refers to the scientific study of how computers work, including programming languages, data structures, and artificial intelligence.

The university offers a degree in computing that focuses on both theoretical foundations and practical application.

The evolution of computing has moved through several distinct eras. Initially, 'computers' were humans who performed calculations by hand. With the advent of mechanical and then electronic machines, computing became synonymous with the automated processing of numbers. Today, we live in the era of ubiquitous computing, where digital processors are embedded in everything from our wristwatches to our refrigerators. This transition means that the word now encompasses networking, cloud storage, and mobile applications. When a business person speaks of 'cloud computing,' they are referring to the delivery of computing services—including servers, storage, databases, networking, and software—over the Internet to offer faster innovation and flexible resources.

Mobile computing has revolutionized the way we interact with the world around us.

The Industrial Context
In business, computing is often linked to productivity and data management, where efficient systems lead to competitive advantages.

Furthermore, computing is often categorized by its scale and purpose. Personal computing involves individual use of laptops and desktops for daily tasks. Enterprise computing involves large-scale systems designed to support the needs of an entire organization. High-performance computing (HPC) uses supercomputers to solve problems that are too large for standard computers. Each of these contexts uses the word 'computing' to highlight the active role of technology in processing information. It is a dynamic term that continues to expand as new technologies like quantum computing and edge computing emerge, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with digital logic.

Quantum computing promises to solve problems that are currently impossible for classical computers.

The history of computing is a story of rapid innovation and shrinking components.

The Social Impact
Computing has fundamentally changed how we communicate, work, and spend our leisure time, creating a digital divide between those with access and those without.

Social computing examines how people interact through online platforms and digital tools.

In summary, computing is a multifaceted noun that describes both an action and a discipline. It is the engine of the modern world, driving progress in science, commerce, and social interaction. Whether you are talking about the technical details of a processor or the broad societal shifts caused by the internet, you are engaging with the world of computing. Its usage is prevalent in professional, academic, and everyday conversations, making it a cornerstone of modern vocabulary.

Using the word computing correctly requires an understanding of its role as an uncountable noun in most contexts, though it can occasionally function as a gerund. It typically appears in phrases that describe a specific type of technology or a field of study. For instance, when discussing the infrastructure of the internet, one might use the term 'cloud computing.' In this case, 'computing' acts as the head of the noun phrase, modified by 'cloud' to specify the delivery method. It is important to note that we rarely say 'a computing' or 'computings'; instead, we treat it as a broad concept or a collective activity.

As a Subject
Computing has become an essential part of the primary school curriculum in many countries.

Modern computing relies heavily on high-speed internet connections.

When using 'computing' in a sentence, it often pairs with verbs like 'study,' 'advance,' 'revolutionize,' or 'implement.' For example, 'Researchers are studying the potential of quantum computing to break encryption codes.' Here, the word describes the specific area of research. In a professional context, you might hear, 'The company is investing in green computing to reduce its carbon footprint.' This usage highlights a specific approach or philosophy within the broader field. The word can also be used to describe the power or capacity of a system, such as in the phrase 'computing power,' which refers to the speed and efficiency with which a computer can process data.

The increase in computing power has enabled more realistic video game graphics.

As an Object
The government is providing more funding for research into advanced computing.

In academic writing, 'computing' is often used to describe the methodology of a study. A sentence might read, 'The results were obtained through intensive computing using a distributed network.' This emphasizes the process of calculation and data processing. In everyday conversation, however, the word might be used more loosely to refer to the general use of computers. 'I spend most of my day computing' is a less common but technically correct way to use the word as a gerund, though 'I spend most of my day on the computer' is more natural. To sound more professional, use 'computing' to refer to the systems and science rather than the mere act of typing.

Distributed computing allows multiple machines to work together on a single task.

The school's computing facilities are open to all students 24 hours a day.

In Compound Nouns
Terms like 'computing skills' or 'computing environment' are very common in job descriptions.

Developing strong computing skills is vital for success in the modern workforce.

Finally, when using 'computing' in a sentence, consider the level of formality. In a formal report, 'The efficiency of our computing resources' sounds better than 'Our computers are fast.' In a casual setting, you might say 'I'm taking a computing class,' which is perfectly acceptable. The versatility of the word allows it to bridge the gap between technical jargon and general English, provided it is used to describe the system, the study, or the collective activity of using digital technology.

You will encounter the word computing in a variety of real-world environments, ranging from high-tech boardrooms to elementary school classrooms. In the professional world, it is a staple of the technology sector. IT professionals, software engineers, and data scientists use it constantly to describe the systems they build and maintain. For example, during a technical meeting, a lead architect might discuss the 'computing requirements' for a new application, referring to the necessary processing power and memory. In this context, the word carries a weight of technical precision and systemic thinking.

In the News
Journalists often use the term when reporting on breakthroughs in artificial intelligence or new hardware releases from companies like Apple or Google.

The news report highlighted the role of edge computing in the development of self-driving cars.

In the academic sphere, 'computing' is the standard name for the department or the field of study. If you visit a university campus, you will see signs for the 'Department of Computing' or 'Computing Sciences.' Students will talk about their 'computing assignments' or 'computing labs.' This usage distinguishes the academic study of the field from the mere use of technology. It implies a deeper dive into the 'how' and 'why' of digital systems. Furthermore, in educational policy discussions, 'computing' has replaced 'ICT' (Information and Communication Technology) in many countries to emphasize the importance of computer science and programming over just using office software.

The professor of computing explained the complexities of neural networks.

In Business Strategy
CEOs and CTOs use the term when discussing digital transformation and the shift to remote work infrastructure.

You will also hear 'computing' in the marketing of consumer electronics. Companies often boast about the 'computing power' of their latest smartphones or tablets to convince buyers of their speed. In this sense, it becomes a synonym for performance. Additionally, the term is frequent in discussions about the future of technology. Phrases like 'pervasive computing' or 'ubiquitous computing' are used by futurists to describe a world where technology is integrated into every aspect of our lives. When you hear these terms, they are usually referring to the broad trend of digital integration rather than a specific device.

The keynote speaker discussed the future of spatial computing and augmented reality.

This laptop offers desktop-class computing in a portable form factor.

In Public Policy
Governments discuss 'sovereign computing' when talking about keeping national data within their own borders.

The debate over ethical computing focuses on the bias in algorithmic decision-making.

Whether you are reading a technical manual, listening to a podcast about the latest tech trends, or attending a lecture on data science, 'computing' is the word that binds these diverse topics together. It is a term of authority and breadth, used to signal that the speaker is talking about the system as a whole rather than just one of its parts. Understanding its various contexts allows you to navigate the modern digital landscape with greater confidence.

Despite its ubiquity, the word computing is often misused by learners and even native speakers. The most common mistake is confusing 'computing' with 'computer.' While a computer is a physical object (a noun you can touch), computing is the activity or the field (an abstract noun). You cannot say 'I bought a new computing yesterday.' Instead, you would say 'I bought a new computer.' Conversely, you wouldn't say 'I am studying computer at university' if you mean the entire field of science; you should say 'I am studying computing.' This distinction between the tool and the process is crucial for clear communication.

Mistake: Pluralization
Incorrect: 'The company uses many different computings.' Correct: 'The company uses many different computing systems.'

Avoid saying 'computings'; instead, use computing as an uncountable noun or add a countable word like 'systems' or 'methods.'

Another frequent error is the confusion between 'computing' and 'computation.' While they are related, they are not always interchangeable. 'Computation' refers specifically to the act of mathematical calculation or the logical steps taken to reach a result. 'Computing' is broader, encompassing the hardware, software, and the social impact of the technology. For example, you might say 'The computation took three hours,' but you would say 'The field of computing is evolving rapidly.' Using 'computation' when you mean the entire industry or field of study can make your speech sound overly technical or slightly off-target.

While computing is the field, a computation is the specific result of a mathematical process.

Mistake: Misusing as a Verb
Incorrect: 'He is computing the data.' (While grammatically possible, 'processing' or 'calculating' is usually preferred unless referring to the system's action).

Learners also sometimes use 'computing' when they should use 'IT' (Information Technology). While they overlap, 'IT' is more commonly used in a business context to refer to the department that fixes your computer or manages the network. 'Computing' is more academic and theoretical. If you say 'I work in computing,' people might think you are a researcher or a high-level developer. If you say 'I work in IT,' they will think you manage systems and support users. Choosing the right term helps set the correct expectations for your professional role.

Don't confuse computing with IT; the former is often more scientific and the latter more operational.

The student was confused between computing and computer engineering.

Mistake: Overusing the Gerund
Incorrect: 'I like computing.' (Too vague). Better: 'I like computer science' or 'I like using computers.'

Using computing as a general hobby description is less common than using 'gaming' or 'programming.'

In conclusion, the key to avoiding mistakes with 'computing' is to remember its status as an abstract, uncountable noun that refers to a system or a field. Avoid pluralizing it, don't use it as a synonym for the physical machine, and be mindful of the subtle differences between it and related terms like 'computation' or 'IT.' By paying attention to these nuances, you will use the word with the precision expected of a B2-level English speaker.

While computing is a comprehensive term, there are several alternatives and similar words that might be more appropriate depending on the specific context. Understanding these nuances will help you vary your vocabulary and speak more precisely. The most common alternative is 'Computer Science.' While often used interchangeably, 'Computer Science' usually refers specifically to the academic and theoretical study of algorithms and data, whereas 'computing' can be broader, including the practical use of technology in various fields.

Informatics
This term is more common in Europe and refers to the science of processing data for storage and retrieval. It is often seen as a synonym for computing in an academic context.

The university's informatics department focuses on the intersection of people and technology.

Another related term is 'Information Technology' (IT). As mentioned previously, IT is more focused on the practical application of computing in a business environment—managing servers, setting up networks, and providing technical support. If you are talking about the infrastructure of a company, 'IT' is often the better choice. On the other hand, 'Data Processing' is an older term that refers specifically to the collection and manipulation of items of data to produce meaningful information. While still used, it sounds a bit dated compared to the modern 'computing' or 'data science.'

While computing covers everything, IT is specifically about managing technology for business needs.

Software Engineering
This refers specifically to the systematic application of engineering approaches to the development of software.

'Cybernetics' is another term you might encounter, though it is more specialized. It refers to the science of communications and automatic control systems in both machines and living things. It is much narrower than 'computing.' In the realm of high-level performance, 'Supercomputing' is a specific subset of computing that involves the use of supercomputers. If you are talking about extremely fast processing for scientific research, 'supercomputing' is the precise term to use. Similarly, 'Cloud Computing' is a specific model of computing that has its own set of terminology and concepts.

The transition from local servers to cloud computing has saved the company millions.

The field of computing is constantly being redefined by new breakthroughs.

Digital Technology
A very broad term that includes computing but also covers telecommunications and digital media.

The impact of digital technology on computing has been profound.

In conclusion, while 'computing' is a fantastic all-purpose word, knowing when to use 'Computer Science,' 'IT,' 'Informatics,' or 'Software Engineering' will make your English sound more sophisticated and precise. Each of these terms highlights a different facet of the digital world, and choosing the right one shows a deep understanding of the subject matter. Always consider whether you are talking about the theory, the business application, the engineering process, or the broad field itself before selecting your word.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

Before electronic machines existed, a 'computer' was a job title for a person (often a woman) who performed complex mathematical calculations by hand.

発音ガイド

UK /kəmˈpjuː.tɪŋ/
US /kəmˈpjuː.t̬ɪŋ/
The primary stress is on the second syllable: com-PU-ting.
韻が合う語
Refuting Diluting Polluting Recruiting Saluting Executing Commuting Disputing
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing the 'o' in 'com' as a strong 'o' instead of a schwa.
  • Putting the stress on the first syllable.
  • Dropping the 'g' at the end (computin').
  • Confusing the 'u' sound with 'oo' (compooting).
  • Making the 'p' sound too soft.

難易度

読解 3/5

The word itself is easy, but the technical contexts can be challenging.

ライティング 4/5

Requires understanding of its uncountable nature and specific collocations.

スピーキング 3/5

Commonly used, but needs to be distinguished from 'computer'.

リスニング 2/5

Easily recognized in most tech-related conversations.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

Computer Data Process Information Technology

次に学ぶ

Algorithm Infrastructure Architecture Encryption Interface

上級

Heuristics Parallelism Virtualization Abstraction Recursion

知っておくべき文法

Uncountable Nouns

We say 'much computing power,' not 'many computing powers.'

Gerunds as Subjects

Computing requires a lot of energy.

Compound Noun Formation

In 'cloud computing,' 'cloud' acts as an adjective.

Prepositional Usage

He is an expert *in* computing.

Article Omission

Computing is essential (no 'The' needed for general concepts).

レベル別の例文

1

I like my computing class at school.

J'aime mon cours d'informatique à l'école.

Used as a noun to describe a school subject.

2

Computing is fun because we play games.

L'informatique est amusante parce que nous jouons à des jeux.

Subject of the sentence.

3

We use computers in computing.

Nous utilisons des ordinateurs en informatique.

Prepositional phrase 'in computing'.

4

My teacher knows a lot about computing.

Mon professeur en sait beaucoup sur l'informatique.

Object of the preposition 'about'.

5

Is computing hard for you?

L'informatique est-elle difficile pour toi ?

Interrogative sentence.

6

I have computing on Tuesdays.

J'ai informatique le mardi.

Used to denote a scheduled activity.

7

Computing helps us learn new things.

L'informatique nous aide à apprendre de nouvelles choses.

Third-person singular verb 'helps' follows the noun.

8

Do you like computing?

Aimes-tu l'informatique ?

Direct object of the verb 'like'.

1

I need to improve my computing skills for work.

Je dois améliorer mes compétences en informatique pour le travail.

Compound noun 'computing skills'.

2

The school has a new computing lab.

L'école a un nouveau laboratoire d'informatique.

Attributive use modifying 'lab'.

3

Computing is an important subject today.

L'informatique est un sujet important aujourd'hui.

Abstract noun as subject.

4

She is very good at computing.

Elle est très douée en informatique.

Gerund-like noun after 'at'.

5

We use computing to solve math problems.

Nous utilisons l'informatique pour résoudre des problèmes de mathématiques.

Direct object of 'use'.

6

Is there a computing club at your school?

Y a-t-il un club d'informatique dans ton école ?

Compound noun 'computing club'.

7

Computing makes life much easier.

L'informatique rend la vie beaucoup plus facile.

Abstract noun as subject.

8

I am interested in computing.

Je m'intéresse à l'informatique.

Object of the preposition 'in'.

1

Cloud computing allows us to store files online.

Le cloud computing nous permet de stocker des fichiers en ligne.

Specific term 'cloud computing'.

2

Mobile computing has changed how we travel.

L'informatique mobile a changé notre façon de voyager.

Specific term 'mobile computing'.

3

The company is investing in new computing technology.

L'entreprise investit dans de nouvelles technologies informatiques.

Modifying 'technology'.

4

High computing power is needed for this game.

Une grande puissance de calcul est nécessaire pour ce jeu.

Compound noun 'computing power'.

5

He decided to pursue a career in computing.

Il a décidé de poursuivre une carrière dans l'informatique.

Object of 'in'.

6

Computing has revolutionized the medical field.

L'informatique a révolutionné le domaine médical.

Present perfect tense.

7

The university offers several computing courses.

L'université propose plusieurs cours d'informatique.

Attributive use.

8

We need to update our computing systems.

Nous devons mettre à jour nos systèmes informatiques.

Compound noun 'computing systems'.

1

The advent of personal computing brought technology into every home.

L'avènement de l'informatique personnelle a introduit la technologie dans chaque foyer.

Noun phrase 'personal computing'.

2

Distributed computing uses many computers to solve a single problem.

L'informatique distribuée utilise de nombreux ordinateurs pour résoudre un seul problème.

Technical term 'distributed computing'.

3

The ethical implications of computing are often debated.

Les implications éthiques de l'informatique sont souvent débattues.

Abstract noun in a formal context.

4

Pervasive computing means technology is everywhere around us.

L'informatique omniprésente signifie que la technologie est partout autour de nous.

Academic term 'pervasive computing'.

5

She specializes in green computing to save energy.

Elle se spécialise dans l'informatique verte pour économiser l'énergie.

Specific niche 'green computing'.

6

The cost of computing has dropped significantly over the years.

Le coût de l'informatique a considérablement chuté au fil des ans.

Uncountable noun as subject.

7

The computing environment must be secure from hackers.

L'environnement informatique doit être protégé des pirates.

Compound noun 'computing environment'.

8

He is an expert in high-performance computing.

C'est un expert en informatique de haute performance.

Formal technical term.

1

Quantum computing leverages the principles of superposition and entanglement.

L'informatique quantique exploite les principes de superposition et d'intrication.

Advanced scientific term.

2

The democratization of computing has empowered small businesses.

La démocratisation de l'informatique a donné du pouvoir aux petites entreprises.

Complex abstract noun phrase.

3

Edge computing reduces latency by processing data closer to the source.

L'informatique de pointe réduit la latence en traitant les données plus près de la source.

Specific architectural term.

4

The university's research into cognitive computing is groundbreaking.

Les recherches de l'université sur l'informatique cognitive sont révolutionnaires.

Niche academic term.

5

We must address the digital divide in computing access.

Nous devons nous attaquer à la fracture numérique dans l'accès à l'informatique.

Sociological context.

6

The shift towards serverless computing is gaining momentum.

Le passage à l'informatique sans serveur prend de l'ampleur.

Modern industry trend.

7

Biological computing uses DNA to store and process information.

L'informatique biologique utilise l'ADN pour stocker et traiter des informations.

Interdisciplinary term.

8

The reliability of the computing infrastructure is paramount.

La fiabilité de l'infrastructure informatique est primordiale.

Formal academic tone.

1

The ontological status of virtual objects in computing remains a topic of debate.

Le statut ontologique des objets virtuels en informatique reste un sujet de débat.

Highly formal philosophical context.

2

Turing's work laid the conceptual foundations for modern computing.

Les travaux de Turing ont jeté les bases conceptuelles de l'informatique moderne.

Historical and theoretical reference.

3

The convergence of nanotechnology and computing is imminent.

La convergence de la nanotechnologie et de l'informatique est imminente.

Scientific prediction.

4

Ubiquitous computing challenges our traditional notions of privacy.

L'informatique omniprésente remet en question nos notions traditionnelles de vie privée.

Sociological and ethical critique.

5

The computational limits of silicon-based computing are being reached.

Les limites de calcul de l'informatique basée sur le silicium sont en train d'être atteintes.

Technical limitation discussion.

6

He published a treatise on the aesthetics of computing design.

Il a publié un traité sur l'esthétique de la conception informatique.

Academic publication context.

7

The paradigm of cloud computing has fundamentally altered the economic landscape.

Le paradigme du cloud computing a fondamentalement modifié le paysage économique.

Economic and systemic analysis.

8

The inextricable link between computing and modern identity is profound.

Le lien inextricable entre l'informatique et l'identité moderne est profond.

Philosophical and sociological synthesis.

類義語

information technology data processing computer science ICT automation

反対語

manual labor analog processing hand calculation

よく使う組み合わせ

Cloud computing
Computing power
Mobile computing
Computing skills
Personal computing
Quantum computing
Distributed computing
Computing environment
Computing resources
Green computing

よく使うフレーズ

High-performance computing

— The use of supercomputers and parallel processing techniques.

Weather forecasting relies on high-performance computing.

Pervasive computing

— The idea that technology is integrated into everyday objects.

Smart homes are an example of pervasive computing.

Ubiquitous computing

— A concept where computing is made to appear anytime and everywhere.

Ubiquitous computing is the goal of the Internet of Things.

Serverless computing

— A cloud computing model where the provider manages the server infrastructure.

Serverless computing allows developers to focus on code.

Cognitive computing

— Technology platforms based on the scientific disciplines of AI and Signal Processing.

Cognitive computing helps doctors diagnose diseases.

Edge computing

— Processing data near the edge of the network, where the data is generated.

Edge computing is vital for real-time applications like self-driving cars.

Social computing

— An area of computer science focused on the intersection of social behavior and computer systems.

Social computing studies how people use social media.

Utility computing

— A service model where computing resources are provided like a public utility.

Utility computing is often used to describe cloud services.

Grid computing

— The use of widely distributed computer resources to reach a common goal.

Grid computing was used to map the human genome.

Soft computing

— The use of inexact solutions to computationally hard tasks.

Soft computing includes fuzzy logic and neural networks.

よく混同される語

computing vs Computer

A computer is the machine; computing is the activity or field.

computing vs Computation

Computation is a specific calculation; computing is the broader system.

computing vs IT

IT is usually business-focused; computing is more scientific and general.

慣用句と表現

"Garbage in, garbage out"

— A principle in computing where the quality of output is determined by the quality of input.

If the data is wrong, the computing results will be useless; garbage in, garbage out.

Informal/Professional
"Crunching the numbers"

— Performing a large number of calculations using a computing system.

The computer is still crunching the numbers for the final report.

Informal
"Plug and play"

— A computing system that works as soon as it is connected.

The new printer is completely plug and play.

Informal
"Under the hood"

— Referring to the complex computing processes that happen out of sight.

Under the hood, the app uses a very complex algorithm.

Informal
"Bleeding edge"

— Referring to the very latest, often unproven, computing technology.

They are working on the bleeding edge of quantum computing.

Informal
"Beta test"

— A stage in computing development where a product is tested by users.

The software is currently in beta test.

Professional
"Killer app"

— A computing application so useful that it justifies the cost of the hardware.

VisiCalc was the killer app for the early Apple II.

Informal
"Vaporware"

— Computing hardware or software that is announced but never actually released.

Many people thought the new OS was just vaporware.

Informal
"Blue screen of death"

— A critical error in a computing system that causes it to crash.

I lost all my work because of the blue screen of death.

Informal
"Legacy system"

— An old computing system that is still in use despite being outdated.

The bank still relies on a legacy system from the 1980s.

Professional

間違えやすい

computing vs Computer

Both relate to technology.

One is a physical object, the other is an abstract process or field.

I use my computer for computing.

computing vs Computation

They share the same root.

Computation is the act of calculating; computing is the use of computers.

The computation was fast thanks to modern computing.

computing vs Calculator

Both do math.

A calculator is a simple tool for math; computing involves complex, programmable systems.

Computing is much more powerful than a simple calculator.

computing vs Informatics

Often used as synonyms.

Informatics is more common in Europe and focuses on information science.

He studies informatics, which is a branch of computing.

computing vs Programming

Programming is a big part of computing.

Programming is the act of writing code; computing is the whole field including hardware.

Programming is a key skill in computing.

文型パターン

A1

I like [Subject].

I like computing.

A2

I am good at [Noun].

I am good at computing.

B1

[Noun] allows us to [Verb].

Cloud computing allows us to work from home.

B2

The advent of [Noun] changed [Something].

The advent of personal computing changed the world.

C1

[Noun] leverages [Principles].

Quantum computing leverages the principles of physics.

C2

The paradigm of [Noun] has [Verb] the [Noun].

The paradigm of cloud computing has altered the economic landscape.

B1

We need more [Noun] power.

We need more computing power for this task.

B2

The ethical implications of [Noun] are [Adjective].

The ethical implications of computing are profound.

語族

名詞

Computer
Computation
Computerization
Computability

動詞

Compute
Computerize

形容詞

Computational
Computerized
Computable

関連

Software
Hardware
Algorithm
Data
Network

使い方

frequency

Very high in technical, business, and educational contexts.

よくある間違い
  • I bought a new computing. I bought a new computer.

    Computing is the field or activity; a computer is the physical device.

  • He is studying many computings. He is studying many computing systems.

    Computing is uncountable and cannot be pluralized in this way.

  • The computation of the world is changing. The world of computing is changing.

    Computation refers to a single calculation; computing refers to the whole field.

  • I work in the computing. I work in computing.

    You don't need the definite article 'the' when referring to the field in general.

  • We need more computer power. We need more computing power.

    'Computing power' is the standard collocation used to describe processing capacity.

ヒント

Uncountable Usage

Never use 'a' or 'an' directly before 'computing' unless it's part of a compound noun. Say 'computing is' not 'a computing is'.

Use Collocations

To sound more natural, pair 'computing' with words like 'power,' 'skills,' or 'resources.' These are very common in native speech.

IT vs. Computing

Use 'IT' for office support and 'computing' for the science or the high-level systems. This shows you understand the industry.

Subject Name

If you are in the UK, use 'Computing' for the school subject. In the US, 'Computer Science' is more standard.

The Schwa Sound

The first 'o' is very weak. It sounds like 'kuhm' rather than 'kom.' Practice this to sound more like a native speaker.

Avoid Repetition

If you've used 'computing' several times, try using 'technology,' 'systems,' or 'processing' to keep your writing interesting.

Identify the Type

When you hear 'computing,' listen for the word before it (like 'cloud' or 'mobile') to understand exactly what is being discussed.

Confidence

Use 'computing' when discussing broad trends. It sounds more authoritative than just saying 'computers.'

Global Use

Remember that 'computing' is understood globally in a tech context, making it a safe and useful word for international business.

The 'ing' Rule

Think of 'computing' as the 'acting' of a computer. The 'ing' helps you remember it's a process or a field.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'COM-PUT-ING': You COMbine data, PUT it in a machine, and keep it goING.

視覚的連想

Imagine a giant brain made of glowing blue wires and microchips, processing a stream of binary numbers (0s and 1s).

Word Web

Software Hardware Cloud Data Algorithm Internet Processing Logic

チャレンジ

Try to explain the difference between 'computing' and 'a computer' to a friend using only three sentences.

語源

The word 'computing' comes from the verb 'compute,' which entered English in the 17th century from the French 'computer.' This, in turn, derived from the Latin 'computare,' meaning 'to count, sum up, or reckon together.'

元の意味: To calculate or count mathematically.

Indo-European (Latin branch).

文化的な背景

Be aware of the 'digital divide,' as not everyone has equal access to computing resources, which can be a sensitive topic in social discussions.

In the UK, 'Computing' is a standard school subject. In the US, 'Computer Science' is the more common term for the academic field.

The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) is the world's largest educational and scientific computing society. Alan Turing is often called the father of theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence. The movie 'The Imitation Game' depicts the early days of computing during WWII.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Education

  • Computing curriculum
  • Computing lab
  • Study computing
  • Computing degree

Business

  • Computing resources
  • Cloud computing
  • Computing costs
  • Enterprise computing

Science

  • High-performance computing
  • Computing power
  • Scientific computing
  • Quantum computing

Daily Life

  • Personal computing
  • Mobile computing
  • Computing skills
  • Ubiquitous computing

Security

  • Computing environment
  • Secure computing
  • Trusted computing
  • Forensic computing

会話のきっかけ

"How has cloud computing changed the way you store your personal photos and documents?"

"Do you think computing skills should be taught to children as early as reading and writing?"

"What do you think is the most exciting advancement in computing in the last decade?"

"How does mobile computing affect your work-life balance?"

"Are you worried about the potential of quantum computing to break current security systems?"

日記のテーマ

Reflect on a day without any computing technology. How would your routine change?

Discuss the ethical responsibilities of those who work in the computing industry.

How has the evolution of personal computing influenced your education or career path?

Write about a future where ubiquitous computing is integrated into every human interaction.

Compare the benefits and drawbacks of cloud computing for a small business owner.

よくある質問

10 問

Computer science is the academic study of the theory of computation, while computing is a broader term that includes the practical use and the entire industry of computer technology.

No, 'computing' is almost always used as an uncountable noun. You would say 'a lot of computing' rather than 'many computings.'

It refers to the delivery of computing services—like servers and storage—over the internet instead of using a local hard drive.

Yes, 'computing' can be the present participle of the verb 'compute,' as in 'He is computing the results,' but it is more commonly used as a noun.

In many countries, the subject was renamed from ICT to Computing to reflect a greater focus on computer science and programming skills.

It is the environmentally responsible use of computers and related resources, focusing on energy efficiency and reducing waste.

Generally, yes. It refers to the ability of a computer to process a certain amount of data in a given time.

It is a type of computing that uses quantum-mechanical phenomena, such as superposition, to perform calculations much faster than classical computers.

You can use it to describe systems or resources, such as 'We need to upgrade our computing infrastructure to handle the new project.'

Yes, it is very common in English, especially in news, education, and business contexts related to technology.

自分をテスト 191 問

writing

Explain the difference between 'cloud computing' and 'personal computing' in your own words.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Describe why computing skills are important in your current or future career.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a short paragraph about the history of computing.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Discuss the ethical implications of ubiquitous computing in modern society.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

What are the benefits of green computing for a large corporation?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Imagine a world without computing. Describe a typical day.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

How has mobile computing changed the way you communicate with friends?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Explain the concept of 'garbage in, garbage out' with a real-world example.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a formal email requesting more computing resources for a project.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Discuss the potential impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Compare 'computing' and 'IT' in a professional context.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

What are the main challenges of distributed computing?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Describe a time when a computing error caused a problem for you.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

How does edge computing improve the performance of IoT devices?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a review of a computing course you have taken.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Discuss the role of computing in modern medicine.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

What is the significance of Alan Turing in the field of computing?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

How can we bridge the digital divide in computing access?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Explain the benefits of serverless computing for developers.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a summary of the latest trends in the computing industry.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Describe your favorite computing device and how you use it.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Discuss the advantages of cloud computing for students.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Explain the concept of 'computing power' to someone who doesn't know it.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Talk about a time when technology made your life easier.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Debate the pros and cons of pervasive computing in our homes.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Present a short talk on the history of personal computing.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

How do you think computing will change in the next 20 years?

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Discuss the importance of green computing for the environment.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Explain the difference between computing and IT.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Talk about a computing skill you would like to learn.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Discuss the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence in computing.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Describe how mobile computing has changed your daily routine.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Explain the benefits of distributed computing for scientific research.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Talk about the 'digital divide' and how it affects your community.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Discuss the impact of computing on the entertainment industry.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Explain what 'quantum computing' is in simple terms.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Talk about the role of computing in your favorite hobby.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Discuss the security risks of cloud computing.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Explain the concept of 'serverless computing'.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Talk about a famous person in the history of computing.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a podcast about tech trends and note down every time 'computing' is used.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a teacher explaining a computing assignment and list the requirements.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a news report on a cyberattack and identify the computing systems affected.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a lecture on quantum computing and summarize the main points.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a conversation between two IT professionals and identify the technical terms.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to an interview with a software engineer about their career in computing.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a commercial for a new laptop and identify the computing power claims.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a discussion about the ethics of computing and note the different opinions.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a guide on how to set up a cloud computing service.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a history documentary about the first computers.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a presentation on edge computing and its benefits.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a person describing their computing skills in a job interview.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a weather forecast and hear how high-performance computing is used.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a child talking about their computing class at school.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a debate about the digital divide.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
error correction

I bought a new computing yesterday.

正解! おしい! 正解: I bought a new computer yesterday.

Use 'computer' for the device and 'computing' for the field or activity.

error correction

He is studying many different computings.

正解! おしい! 正解: He is studying many different computing systems.

Computing is uncountable; use 'systems' to make it plural.

error correction

The computation power of this phone is high.

正解! おしい! 正解: The computing power of this phone is high.

'Computing power' is the correct collocation.

error correction

I work in the computing industry.

正解! おしい! 正解: I work in the computing industry.

This sentence is actually correct, but often people say 'in computing' without 'the industry'.

error correction

She is good at the computing.

正解! おしい! 正解: She is good at computing.

Don't use 'the' before 'computing' when referring to the general skill.

error correction

We need many computing for this project.

正解! おしい! 正解: We need a lot of computing power for this project.

Computing is uncountable; use 'a lot of' or 'more'.

error correction

The cloud computing are very useful.

正解! おしい! 正解: Cloud computing is very useful.

Computing is singular and uncountable.

error correction

He has a computing degree.

正解! おしい! 正解: He has a computing degree.

This is correct, but 'degree in computing' is also common.

error correction

I like doing computing.

正解! おしい! 正解: I like computing.

You don't need 'doing' before 'computing' when it's the subject/activity.

error correction

The history of computings is interesting.

正解! おしい! 正解: The history of computing is interesting.

Keep 'computing' singular.

/ 191 correct

Perfect score!

関連コンテンツ

Technologyの関連語

abautoal

C1

さまざまなデータ構造または言語単位の自動的な整合と統合のための体系的な方法論または技術フレームワークであり、手動介入なしで同期を保証します。

abautoence

C1

自己管理メカニズムまたは自律ルーチンを通じてプロセスを体系的に自動化または合理化すること。効率を最大化し、認知負荷を軽減するために、手動タスクをバックグラウンドの技術的または習慣的なシステムに委任する行為を指します。

ablogtion

C1

ablogtionとは、オンライン上の評判を管理するために、プラットフォームからデジタル記録や時系列のログエントリを体系的に削除、消去、またはスクラブすることを意味します。

abmanless

C1

完全な自動化を通じて、システムから手動の人間による介入の必要性を取り除くこと。

activation

B2

アクティベーション(有効化)とは、装置やソフトウェアを使える状態にすることです。例えば、新しいスマホの初期設定などです。

actuator

B2

アクチュエータは、電気や空気のエネルギーを物理的な動きに変える機械部品です。

adpaterable

C1

システムやデバイスをアダプターに対応できるように改造または設定すること。

adpaterward

C1

アダプターワード(adapterward)とは、初期組み立て後に技術システムに統合される二次的な調整または補足コンポーネントであり、新しい規格との互換性を確保します。これは、レガシー部分と最新部分との間の後期同期を容易にする物理的またはデジタルの「ブリッジ」を具体的に指します。

aerospace

B2

地球の大気圏内または宇宙空間を飛行する航空機や宇宙船の設計、製造、運用に関連するもの。

algorithms

B2

アルゴリズムとは、ある特定の問題を解くための、段階的な手順や計算方法のことです。

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