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noun

ICT

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ICT (noun) means Information and communications technology: computing, networks, telephony and the systems that let people store, send and access information — used especially of the technology infrastructure of a school, business or country. Example: “The grant funds new ICT equipment for rural schools.”

noun
1
Information and communications technology: computing, networks, telephony and the systems that let people store, send and access information — used especially of the technology infrastructure of a school, business or country.
"The grant funds new ICT equipment for rural schools."
"She heads the ICT department at the council."
2
chiefly British A school subject covering computer skills and the use of digital tools.
"We had ICT twice a week — mostly spreadsheets and typing."

How to Use ICT

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishComputers, networks and phones, and the skills to use them.

When to use it

Neutral. Standard in British education, government and international development; less common in American business, which says IT.

Memory tip

In finance and trading forums, ICT can instead refer to an unrelated trading methodology; check the context before assuming technology.

Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
ICT skills ICT infrastructure ICT in education ICT sector
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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The grant funds new _____ equipment for rural schools.

Etymology

An initialism of information and communications technology.

Origin: English

IT information technology technology infrastructure

Related Words

Rhymes for ICT

See all rhymes for ICT →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between IT and ICT?

IT covers computers, software and data systems. ICT adds the communications side — networks, telephony, broadcasting and the technologies that move information between people. In practice they are used interchangeably, with ICT preferred in British education, the EU and development policy, and IT preferred in business, especially in the US.

What is the difference between ICT and computer science?

ICT teaches how to use technology — applications, digital tools and information handling. Computer science teaches how it works, including programming, algorithms and computational theory. In England, ICT was largely replaced in the curriculum by computing, which restores that theoretical side.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial · etymology from FreeDict original editorial