Factsheet
- Word Type: Adjective
- Pronunciation:
- British English: /tɛk ˈsævi/
- U.S. English: /tɛk ˈsævi/
- Rhyming Words: heavy, navy, levy
- Field: Computing, General Usage
- First Known Use: 1984
Etymology
The term tech-savvy is a compound word formed from:
- Tech: Short for “technology,” originating from the Greek word tekhnologia (systematic treatment).
- Savvy: Colloquial term derived from the Latin sapere (to know) via Spanish sabe and Portuguese saber (to know).
Together, the term conveys a combination of technological knowledge and practical understanding.
Meaning & Use
Definition
Tech-savvy describes someone who is:
- Proficient and knowledgeable in using technology, particularly digital and computer-based systems.
- Quick to adapt to new technologies and tools.
Quotations in Context
- 1984:
“Help wanted: tech-savvy secretaries.”
— Philadelphia Inquirer - 1996:
“It should take even the least tech-savvy person 15 minutes from opening the box to actually being online.”
— Denver Post - 2010:
“Ditch the guidebooks. Israel’s tourism ministry has launched a new gadget for the tech-savvy traveller.”
— Jewish Chronicle - 2019:
“Now any tech-savvy criminal has the keys to a kingdom of potential victims.”
— C. Goldberg, Nobody’s Victim
Pronunciation
- Phonetic: /tɛk ˈsævi/
- Rhyming Words: heavy, navy, levy
The stress falls on the second syllable of savvy (SAV-ee), following the clipped sound of tech.
Examples in Everyday Use
- Workplace:
- “Our team needs a tech-savvy employee to manage the new software implementation.”
- Education:
- “The younger generation is often more tech-savvy, easily navigating complex digital tools.”
- Travel:
- “Tech-savvy travelers rely on apps and gadgets for seamless experiences.”
- Crime:
- “Tech-savvy hackers exploit vulnerabilities in outdated systems.”
Synonyms
- Technologically adept
- Digitally proficient
- IT-literate
- Tech-fluent
- Computer-savvy
Cultural Significance
Tech-savvy has become an essential trait in the modern world:
- Workplace Relevance: Employers value tech-savvy individuals for their ability to handle digital tools and streamline operations.
- Daily Life: The term highlights the growing reliance on technology for communication, entertainment, and everyday tasks.
- Generational Impact: Younger generations are often labeled as inherently tech-savvy due to their early exposure to technology.
Conclusion
The adjective tech-savvy embodies the essential skill set of the 21st century—technological proficiency and adaptability. Whether used to describe an IT professional, a gadget-loving traveler, or even a skilled digital native, the term captures the growing importance of understanding and leveraging technology in a rapidly evolving world.
