[English 101] WEB SEARCH - Words for surfing, queries, and online information

Teaching Material

1. I used a popular search engine to look up recipe ideas.
• Search engine (noun phrase) - A website or tool designed to find information on the Internet, e.g., Google.
• Use it when referring to platforms that help locate information online. It's essential for everyday research or quick answers.
• Friend: “How did you find that website?” You: “I typed keywords into a search engine.”
• Search platform - Use when discussing alternative or specialized searching services beyond mainstream search engines.
2. I typed the keyword ‘healthy breakfast’ to see relevant sites.
• Keyword (noun) - A word or phrase used in a search to find related content.
• Mention ‘keyword’ when specifying the main term for searching. Focused keywords help get more accurate results.
• You: “Any tips for better results?” Friend: “Use precise keywords to narrow down the search.”
3. Her query about local hiking spots brought up many useful links.
• Query (noun) - A request for information entered in a search engine or database.
• Use when referring to your exact question or phrase in a search box. Keep it concise and direct for better outcomes.
• Friend: “What was your query for this info?” You: “I simply typed ‘best hiking trails near me.’”
4. I spent my afternoon browsing for new gadget deals.
• Browse (verb) - To look through webpages or content casually without a specific target.
• Use ‘browse’ when casually surfing the web for various topics, not necessarily looking for something specific.
• You: “What are you doing online?” Friend: “Just browsing for interesting articles.”
• Surf - Use in a more casual or colloquial sense about exploring the web.
5. That article was just clickbait and didn’t provide the tips it promised.
• Clickbait (noun) - A misleading or sensational headline designed to attract clicks without offering real substance.
• Mention ‘clickbait’ for content that entices users but lacks actual depth. Be cautious with such links to save time.
• Friend: “Why is this post trending?” You: “Probably because of its clickbait title.”
6. I created a bookmark for my online banking site.
• Bookmark (noun/verb) - A saved link in a browser allowing quick access to a frequently visited webpage.
• Use when referencing storing a page for later. It saves time if you frequently return to the same site.
• You: “How do you revisit that site so fast?” Friend: “I have it bookmarked in my browser.”
7. Copy the URL and paste it into the email so I can visit that site too.
• URL (noun) - Uniform Resource Locator, the web address used to locate a webpage.
• Crucial term for specifying a webpage’s address. Always check the URL for accuracy or security before visiting.
• Friend: “Where should I put the link?” You: “Just send me the URL directly.”
8. Click the hyperlink in the article to learn more about the topic.
• Hyperlink (noun) - A clickable text or image that directs users to another page or resource.
• Use it when describing any clickable link. Check the destination if uncertain about safety or relevance.
• You: “Where’s the additional info?” Friend: “That hyperlink leads to a detailed page.”
9. My browser suddenly froze while I was shopping online.
• Browser (noun) - Software used to access and view websites, like Chrome or Safari.
• Essential for navigating the web. Many options exist—choose one you find user-friendly and secure.
• Friend: “Which browser do you prefer?” You: “I use Chrome because it syncs with my Google account.”
10. I opened multiple tabs to compare prices from different sites.
• Tab (noun) - A separate page or instance opened within the same browser window.
• A handy feature to keep multiple pages open without cluttering your screen with new windows.
• You: “Why do you have so many tabs open?” Friend: “I’m juggling research articles all at once.”
11. I used incognito mode to search for a surprise gift without leaving a trail.
• Incognito mode (noun phrase) - A private browsing setting that doesn’t store local browsing history or cookies.
• Ideal for privacy on shared devices. Note that it doesn’t provide total anonymity—websites can still track some info.
• You: “Why use incognito?” Friend: “I don’t want it to show in my history.”
• Private window - Use if your browser calls it a 'private window,' like Firefox or Safari.
12. Autocomplete saved time by finishing my search query for me.
• Autocomplete (noun) - A feature suggesting search queries or URLs based on partial input and history.
• Great for speeding up repeated searches or site visits. Be mindful that it can reveal your browsing habits if someone’s watching.
• You: “How did you type so fast?” Friend: “My browser’s autocomplete suggested the rest.”
13. The search algorithm changed, so my favorite blog is harder to find now.
• Algorithm (noun) - A set of rules or calculations used by search engines to rank or filter results.
• Mention it when discussing how search results or social media feeds are ranked. Complex behind-the-scenes logic shapes your online experience.
• Friend: “Why did the results shuffle?” You: “They updated the search algorithm again.”
14. The top SERP result was a sponsored ad, not an organic listing.
• SERP (abbreviation/noun) - Search Engine Results Page, displaying the list of pages after a user query.
• Use ‘SERP’ when referring to the actual page containing your query outcomes. Notice positions or ad labels carefully.
• You: “Where did you see that link?” Friend: “Right at the top of the SERP.”
15. I used advanced search to find news articles from the past month only.
• Advanced search (noun phrase) - A tool or feature allowing more refined queries, with filters like date or domain.
• Mention it for more specific hunts. Restrict by site, file type, or date range to get exactly what you want.
• You: “How did you narrow it down?” Friend: “I used advanced search options for precise results.”
16. I decided to filter results by region for more local information.
• Filter results (verb phrase) - Narrowing down search outcomes by certain criteria such as language or time.
• Use ‘filter results’ to refine big sets of data. Helps you skip irrelevant content or older pages.
• You: “Why so few pages now?” Friend: “I filtered results to the last week only.”
17. The most relevance is usually at the top of the search list.
• Relevance (noun) - How closely the search result matches your query or interest.
• Mention it when discussing the match between your question and the pages found. Typically the first results have higher relevance, but not always.
• Friend: “Why isn’t this link at the top?” You: “It has less relevance to my exact query.”
18. That blog’s rank improved after adding more original content.
• Rank (noun/verb) - The position of a webpage in search results for a specific query.
• Often used to describe search engine placement. Higher rank typically equals more visibility and clicks.
• You: “Why is it the first result?” Friend: “Its rank is high due to popularity and credibility.”
19. I checked what’s trending this morning and found that new music video everywhere.
• Trending (adjective) - Currently popular or widely discussed topics on the web.
• Use it to reference hot topics or viral subjects. Good to keep up if you want timely or popular info.
• You: “What’s the big deal right now?” Friend: “This hashtag is trending across social media.”
20. Her website got more traffic after it earned a major backlink from a news site.
• Backlink (noun) - A hyperlink from one site pointing back to another, important for search engine rankings.
• Mention if discussing site popularity or search optimization. Backlinks often boost authority and ranking.
• You: “Why did your blog’s visits spike?” Friend: “I got a backlink from a popular article.”
21. The search engine’s crawler visits my site daily to update its listings.
• Crawler (noun) - An automated program used by search engines to scan and index web pages.
• Relevant in behind-the-scenes search processes. Not typically used in casual conversation unless discussing how search indexing works.
• You: “How does Google know what’s on your site?” Webmaster: “Their crawler scans each page regularly.”
22. It can take days for a new site to appear in the index.
• Index (noun/verb) - A collection or database of web pages a search engine has processed and stored.
• Use ‘index’ regarding listing or storing pages for retrieval. Typically the reason behind delayed visibility for new content.
• You: “Why can’t I find my blog yet?” Friend: “It may not be in the search engine’s index yet.”
23. Don’t download from shady sites or you risk malware infections.
• Malware (noun) - Malicious software designed to harm or exploit computers and networks.
• A major concern when browsing unknown sites. Mention it when cautioning others about possible threats or suspicious links.
• Friend: “My computer’s acting up.” You: “You might have malware from that suspicious download.”
24. She received a phishing email pretending to be her bank.
• Phishing (noun) - A fraudulent attempt to steal sensitive data by masquerading as a trustworthy entity online.
• Always be wary of messages asking for personal info or passwords. Verify URLs and email senders carefully.
• You: “Should I click this link?” Friend: “It looks like phishing—don’t trust it.”
25. Make sure you see ‘https’ or a lock icon for a secure site before entering credit card details.
• Secure site (noun phrase) - A website using encryption (HTTPS) to protect data exchange between user and server.
• Crucial for online transactions or sensitive data. Check for the padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar.
• You: “Is it safe to buy here?” Friend: “Yes, it’s a secure site with valid certificates.”
26. Encryption protects your private messages on many messaging apps.
• Encryption (noun) - Converting information into code to prevent unauthorized access.
• Mention it when discussing data security. Ensures only intended parties can interpret the exchanged info online.
• You: “How is my data safe?” Tech friend: “They use strong encryption to secure it.”
27. Always look for HTTPS when logging into your email account.
• HTTPS (abbreviation/noun) - Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, ensuring an encrypted connection for websites.
• Use it when referencing secure website protocols. Prefer sites with HTTPS, especially for passwords or payments.
• You: “Why do some links have https?” Friend: “It means the site is more secure.”
28. I hate pop-ups; they clutter my screen when I’m reading.
• Pop-up (noun) - A small window or ad that opens automatically while browsing.
• Often annoying or misleading. Consider using pop-up blockers if they hamper your browsing experience.
• You: “Where did this random offer come from?” Friend: “It’s just a pop-up ad.”
29. My ad blocker stops most pop-ups, so I rarely see intrusive ads.
• Ad blocker (noun) - Browser extension that prevents ads or pop-ups from displaying on websites.
• Helpful for faster, cleaner browsing. Some sites ask you to disable it to support their revenue from ads.
• Friend: “How come you have no ads?” You: “I installed an ad blocker last week.”
30. That banner’s high clickthrough rate surprised the marketing team.
• Clickthrough (noun) - The action of clicking a link or ad that redirects to another page.
• Mention ‘clickthrough’ when discussing how many people actually click on a link or advertisement. Common in marketing or analytics.
• You: “Why is this ad so prominent?” Friend: “They want a better clickthrough to drive traffic.”
31. Streaming video can eat up a lot of bandwidth during peak hours.
• Bandwidth (noun) - The capacity of an internet connection to handle data transfer at a time, measured in Mbps or Gbps.
• Crucial for streaming or large downloads. Higher bandwidth means faster load times and smoother online experiences.
• You: “Why is it buffering?” Friend: “We might not have enough bandwidth right now.”
32. High latency made the video chat lag and freeze.
• Latency (noun) - The delay between a user action and the web server’s response, measured in milliseconds.
• Focus on it if your connection feels delayed. Lower latency results in more responsive browsing or gaming.
• Friend: “Why are my pages loading slowly?” You: “It’s probably high latency on your network.”
33. My connectivity dropped, so I got disconnected from the webinar.
• Connectivity (noun) - The state or quality of a device’s network connection, such as Wi-Fi or mobile data.
• Use when describing the stability or reliability of your internet link. Vital for streaming, calls, or online search.
• You: “Why aren’t you online?” Friend: “Connectivity issues with my router.”
34. I switched my ISP to get faster broadband speeds.
• ISP (abbreviation/noun) - Internet Service Provider, the company providing your online access at home or work.
• Essential to mention if discussing internet performance or billing. Different ISPs offer varying speeds and support.
• You: “Why do you have better Wi-Fi now?” Friend: “I changed to a more reliable ISP.”
35. I rely on Wi-Fi at the coffee shop when my data is low.
• Wi-Fi (noun) - A wireless networking technology allowing devices to connect to the internet without cables.
• Crucial for most browsing or device connections. Check signal strength or security settings for stable use.
• You: “Got any connection?” Friend: “Yes, the café’s Wi-Fi is pretty fast.”
36. Rebooting the router often fixes minor connectivity problems.
• Router (noun) - A device directing internet traffic between your home network and the ISP.
• Key for distributing Wi-Fi or wired connections. Keep it updated with firmware and place it centrally for better coverage.
• You: “Why is there no signal?” Friend: “The router might need a restart.”
37. The modem lights indicate if there’s a stable connection to the ISP.
• Modem (noun) - Hardware that converts data signals between digital devices and analog phone lines or cable systems.
• Often paired with a router, sometimes combined in one device. If the modem fails, no internet at all.
• You: “What’s that box for?” Friend: “That’s the modem; it communicates with our provider.”
38. I cleared my cache to fix weird display issues on the website.
• Cache (noun) - Temporary storage for frequently accessed data to speed up subsequent loads.
• Useful term if a site isn’t refreshing content properly. Clearing browser cache can solve many minor browsing glitches.
• You: “Why reload everything?” Friend: “The cache might be outdated or corrupted.”
39. I had to accept cookies before the site let me proceed.
• Cookies (noun (plural)) - Small data files stored on your device by websites to remember preferences or track user behavior.
• Consider adjusting cookie settings for privacy or preference. Some sites won’t function fully without them.
• You: “Why do they track me?” Friend: “Cookies help them keep you logged in and show relevant ads.”
40. I always clear history on a shared computer for privacy.
• Clear history (verb phrase) - Removing the record of visited sites and searches in your browser.
• Use it to maintain privacy or free space. Keep in mind it also removes quick access to frequently visited pages.
• You: “Why aren’t my past sites showing?” Friend: “I cleared history last night.”
41. He used anonymous browsing to avoid targeted ads.
• Anonymous browsing (noun phrase) - Visiting sites without leaving identifiable data, often through privacy tools or networks.
• Good for privacy, but remember complete anonymity is tough. Some services or sites can still track or store data.
• You: “How can I hide my IP?” Friend: “Try a VPN for more anonymous browsing.”
42. Type the product name in the search bar at the top.
• Search bar (noun phrase) - A field on a webpage or browser where you type queries to find content.
• Central to performing quick site or internet searches. Found in browsers, websites, or specific apps.
• You: “Where do I start?” Friend: “See the search bar? Just type your query there.”
43. This site’s home page showcases daily deals front and center.
• Home page (noun phrase) - The main or opening webpage for a site or browser start screen.
• Often the first impression of a website. Provides shortcuts or navigation to key sections. Can also be your set landing in a browser.
• You: “Where do I land first?” Friend: “The home page has all the featured articles.”
44. The ad sent me to a landing page with just one purchase button.
• Landing page (noun phrase) - A standalone web page, typically for marketing or specific campaign info, that users ‘land on.’
• Mention it when referencing pages designed with a single goal, like sign-ups. Different from a site’s general homepage.
• Friend: “Why is this page so simple?” You: “It’s a landing page designed to focus on one offer.”
45. Could you share the link to that article so I can read it, too?
• Share link (verb phrase) - Copying or sending a webpage’s URL to someone else.
• Use it often in daily browsing. Always check if the link is correct and relevant before sending to others.
• You: “How do I get the recipe?” Friend: “I’ll share the link via text.”
46. I’ll download the PDF report so I can read it offline.
• Download (verb/noun) - To transfer a file from the internet to your local device.
• Essential when acquiring digital content from the web. Make sure your device or plan can handle the file size.
• You: “How do I get that file?” Friend: “Just click ‘Download’ and save it on your computer.”
47. I need to upload my resume to the job application portal.
• Upload (verb) - Sending a file from your local device to a website or online service.
• Crucial for sharing content or attachments online. Always double-check you’re uploading the correct file version.
• You: “Where do I place this document?” Friend: “Click ‘Upload’ in your profile settings.”
48. I’m streaming a new series tonight on my laptop.
• Streaming (noun/gerund) - Playing media (audio/video) directly from the internet without downloading the entire file first.
• Common for music or video services. Requires a stable connection with enough bandwidth for smooth playback.
• Friend: “Want to watch that movie?” You: “Sure, let’s find it streaming online.”
49. I canceled my subscription because I wasn’t using the service enough.
• Subscription (noun) - A recurring payment model to access premium content or services online.
• Use it for paid online services. Track recurring charges to avoid paying for unused subscriptions.
• You: “How do you watch so many shows?” Friend: “I have a subscription to multiple streaming platforms.”
50. I can’t log in because I forgot my password again.
• Log in (phrasal verb) - To access an account by entering a username and password or other credentials.
• Essential for account-based platforms. Keep passwords secure and consider enabling two-factor authentication for safety.
• You: “How do I see my messages?” Friend: “Just log in first with your email and pass.”
51. You have to sign up before commenting on that forum.
• Sign up (phrasal verb) - To register for a new account or subscription on a website or app.
• Mention it when instructing someone to create an account. Usually requires providing personal info or verifying an email.
• Friend: “How do I join this site?” You: “Just sign up using your email—it’s free.”
52. Two-factor authentication adds another layer of security to your account.
• Authentication (noun) - A process verifying a user’s identity, typically via passwords or tokens.
• Key for secure logins. Stronger methods reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Use if worried about hacking.
• Friend: “Why do I need a code from my phone?” You: “That’s for authentication to prove it’s really you.”
53. The sign-up page was quick thanks to auto-fill of my details.
• Auto-fill (noun) - A browser feature that automatically enters stored user info (like address or password) into forms.
• Convenient for frequent forms. Be cautious on public or shared devices. Clear saved data if security is a concern.
• You: “Why did that field fill itself?” Friend: “My browser’s auto-fill remembered my info.”
54. I scrolled through the entire article to find the conclusion.
• Scroll (verb) - Moving through a webpage vertically or horizontally, usually via mouse wheel or gestures.
• Basic navigation for long pages. Using the scroll bar or gestures, you can reveal more content below the screen.
• You: “Where is the recipe part?” Friend: “Keep scrolling; it’s at the bottom.”
55. I hit refresh to see if new comments have appeared.
• Refresh (verb) - Reload a webpage to update its content or fix display issues.
• Useful if a page partially loads or you expect recent updates. Shortcut keys often help (e.g., F5 on Windows).
• You: “I don’t see the newest message.” Friend: “Try refreshing the page.”
56. Remember to close tabs you’re done with, or they’ll clutter your session.
• Close tab (verb phrase) - To exit a specific page without closing the entire browser.
• Handy for tidying your workspace. Saves memory on your device. Reopen recently closed tabs if needed via history.
• You: “Why is your browser so slow?” Friend: “I forgot to close tabs—I have 20 open.”
57. I checked my history to revisit a page I found last night.
• History (noun) - A record of websites visited in a browser, showing page titles and visit times.
• Use it to retrieve lost pages or track what you visited. Consider clearing it periodically for privacy on shared computers.
• You: “Where did you see that discount code?” Friend: “Let me look at my browsing history.”
58. I installed a browser extension for quick note-taking while surfing the web.
• Browser extension (noun phrase) - A small software add-on that modifies or enhances browser functionality.
• They can provide extra features but might slow your browser or pose security risks if from untrusted sources.
• Friend: “How did you capture that screenshot?” You: “My browser extension handles it with one click.”
59. I joined an online forum to ask about camera recommendations.
• Online forum (noun phrase) - A site or section where people post messages to discuss topics in threads.
• Great for community-driven Q&A. Always follow the forum rules and be polite when seeking help or sharing input.
• You: “Any luck with your question?” Friend: “Yes, someone on the forum gave me solid advice.”
60. Check the FAQ before emailing support; the solution might be there.
• FAQ (abbreviation/noun) - Frequently Asked Questions, a section providing common queries and answers.
• Often the first stop for troubleshooting or common knowledge. Saves you time instead of contacting support directly.
• You: “Where can I find basic help?” Friend: “Look at their FAQ page first.”
61. That online resource helped me master basic coding quickly.
• Online resource (noun phrase) - Any website or digital material providing information or tools.
• Use broadly for educational or reference sites. Evaluate credibility before relying on new or unfamiliar sources.
• You: “Where’d you learn that skill?” Friend: “I found a great online resource for tutorials.”
62. I clicked the link, but it caused a redirect to a subscription form.
• Redirect (noun/verb) - When a webpage automatically sends you to another page or site.
• Can be normal or suspicious. If unexpected, check the URL for possible phishing or ad-based redirection.
• You: “Why can’t I see the original page?” Friend: “They set it to redirect after it loads.”
63. I got a 404 error trying to open that old blog post.
• 404 error (noun phrase) - A message indicating a webpage isn’t found or doesn’t exist anymore.
• Common if a link is outdated or typed incorrectly. Try going to the site’s homepage or checking the URL again.
• You: “Did the site move?” Friend: “Could be. The 404 error means the page isn’t there.”
64. The store was down for maintenance, so I couldn’t place my order.
• Down for maintenance (adjective phrase) - A temporary state where a site is offline to fix or update features.
• Typically short-term. Wait or check social media for status updates if you rely on that site or service.
• You: “Why can’t I buy now?” Friend: “Their site’s down for maintenance—try later.”
65. I tried the beta site to see new features before their official launch.
• Beta site (noun phrase) - A test version of a website still in development, open for user feedback.
• Expect bugs or incomplete features. Provide feedback if requested, as it helps developers refine final releases.
• You: “Why does it look incomplete?” Friend: “It’s a beta site, so some parts aren’t finalized yet.”
66. There’s a bug making the contact form freeze on my screen.
• Bug (noun) - An error or glitch in software or a website causing unintended behavior.
• Common in tech. If you spot one, you can refresh, retry, or contact support with details for a fix.
• You: “Why can’t I submit the form?” Friend: “Might be a bug in the code—send a report.”
67. A quick reboot of my laptop solved the browser crash.
• Reboot (verb/noun) - To restart a device or software, often a step to fix technical problems.
• A basic troubleshooting method. Often solves memory or temporary glitch issues. Save your work first, though.
• You: “My browser is stuck.” Friend: “Try a reboot—sometimes that does the trick.”
68. I viewed the cached version when the site’s live server was down.
• Cached version (noun phrase) - A stored snapshot of a web page kept by a search engine or browser for reference.
• Useful if a site is temporarily unavailable or changed. Might be outdated, but helps recover older info.
• You: “How did you still see it offline?” Friend: “I clicked ‘Cached version’ on the search results.”
69. The entire web is essentially built on hypertext connecting resources.
• Hypertext (noun) - Text displayed on a computer or device with embedded links to other documents.
• Foundation of the World Wide Web. Typically not used in casual conversation unless discussing technical aspects.
• You: “How do links work?” Friend: “They’re part of hypertext—clickable references in a document.”
70. He tweaked the HTML to fix the page layout issue.
• HTML (abbreviation/noun) - Hypertext Markup Language, the standard code for building webpages.
• Technical term if you’re customizing or building a page. Usually behind the scenes, not crucial for everyday casual browsing.
• You: “Why is your site so plain?” Friend: “I only added basic HTML so far.”
71. That button’s JavaScript code handles the sign-up form validation.
• JavaScript (noun) - A programming language enabling interactive or dynamic features on webpages.
• Used for modern web functionality. If you notice interactive elements not working, check if JavaScript is disabled.
• You: “How does the page auto-update?” Friend: “Likely some JavaScript in the background.”
72. My scroll wheel broke, so I have to drag the scroll bar manually.
• Scroll wheel (noun phrase) - The wheel on a mouse allowing users to scroll vertically on webpages.
• Mention it for desktop browsing. If it’s not responding, clean or check your mouse settings.
• You: “How do you move through pages so fast?” Friend: “I just flick the scroll wheel.”
73. I hovered the mouse pointer over the link to preview its URL.
• Mouse pointer (noun phrase) - The on-screen cursor moved by a mouse or trackpad to select or click items.
• Fundamental for navigation on computers. If it lags, consider checking drivers or your mouse battery.
• You: “Where’s the setting?” Friend: “Move your mouse pointer to the top right corner.”
74. Just tap the button to open the menu on your tablet.
• Tap (verb) - Touching a screen (phone or tablet) briefly to activate or select an element.
• Common in touchscreen usage. Usually means a quick contact with your finger. Double-tap can zoom or highlight, depending on settings.
• Friend: “How do I follow that link on my phone?” You: “Tap it once, and it should load.”
75. I zoomed in on the small text to make it readable.
• Zoom in (phrasal verb) - To magnify or enlarge the view of a webpage or image.
• Helpful for fine details on a small screen. Know gestures (pinch out) or shortcuts (Ctrl + ‘+’) to quickly adjust size.
• You: “Why are the words huge?” Friend: “I zoomed in to see details more clearly.”
76. I used the preview function to make sure I had the right PDF.
• Preview (noun/verb) - A quick look or partial display of a webpage or file before full access or download.
• Saves time and data if you only need a quick look. Common in cloud storage or search results snippets.
• You: “Do you have to open it fully?” Friend: “No, the preview shows me what’s inside first.”
77. I pinned my most-used sites to the favorites bar for easy visits.
• Favorites bar (noun phrase) - A toolbar in the browser for quick one-click access to bookmarked sites.
• Great for streamlining your daily browsing. Keep it well-organized for better navigation.
• You: “Where’s that site you use?” Friend: “Right here in my favorites bar.”
78. I had to unfollow that blog because it posted too frequently.
• Unfollow (verb) - To stop receiving updates or content from a particular account or source.
• Common on social media or content platforms. If something gets annoying or irrelevant, unfollow to clean up your feed.
• You: “Tired of those notifications?” Friend: “Yes, I’m going to unfollow their page.”
79. Don’t forget to subscribe if you want notifications for new videos.
• Subscribe (verb) - To opt into receiving updates, newsletters, or posts from a site or channel.
• Use it for content you enjoy and want to follow long-term. Check if it’s free or paid subscription.
• You: “How do I get alerted about new uploads?” Friend: “Subscribe to their channel, and turn on notifications.”
80. That dance challenge went viral within a few days.
• Viral (adjective) - Content rapidly shared by many users, quickly gaining massive exposure online.
• Describes phenomenon spreading fast on social media. Might fade quickly, but can bring huge temporary attention.
• You: “Why is everyone talking about it?” Friend: “It’s viral—people keep sharing it everywhere.”
81. My social media feed is flooded with holiday photos.
• Social media feed (noun phrase) - A stream of posts or updates on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
• Center of everyday online interaction. Adjust your feed settings to control what you see frequently.
• You: “How do you keep up with everyone’s posts?” Friend: “I just scroll through my feed every evening.”
82. I archived the conversation so it doesn’t clutter my inbox.
• Archive (verb/noun) - To store old posts or messages away from the main view without fully deleting them.
• Use if you want to tidy up yet keep info. Usually retrievable for reference in the future.
• You: “Did you delete that chat?” Friend: “No, just archived it for now.”
83. I found the new user interface more intuitive than the old design.
• User interface (noun phrase) - The visual layout and interactive elements allowing users to engage with a website or app.
• Mention if you’re discussing ease of use or design changes. Good UI often equals better user satisfaction.
• You: “Why does it look simpler?” Tech friend: “They redesigned the user interface for easier navigation.”
• UI - Often used in tech conversations about layout or design references.
84. I filled out the feedback form to report the broken link.
• Feedback form (noun phrase) - A section or page where users can submit opinions or issues regarding a website or product.
• Helps site owners improve user experience. Polite, clear feedback can lead to quick fixes or added features.
• You: “How do we tell them about the bug?” Friend: “Submit it via their feedback form.”
85. I sent a bug report after finding that the checkout page wouldn’t load.
• Bug report (noun phrase) - A written description of an error, usually submitted to developers or site admins.
• Providing clear steps to reproduce helps developers fix issues faster. Useful if you frequently find or track site errors.
• You: “Should I just ignore the glitch?” Friend: “Better send a bug report so they can fix it.”
86. I used online chat support to solve my password reset problem.
• Online chat support (noun phrase) - A real-time messaging service on websites to assist users or customers with issues.
• Convenient for immediate help. Keep relevant info (order ID, screenshots) on hand for faster resolution.
• Friend: “How did you fix it?” You: “The site’s online chat support walked me through.”
87. Click the share button to post this article on social media.
• Share button (noun phrase) - A button on webpages or apps enabling you to quickly post or send content to other platforms.
• A standard tool for distributing links or content. Always confirm the platform or privacy settings before sharing widely.
• You: “How do I show my friends this page?” Friend: “Use the share button—easy and fast!”
88. I took a screencap of the error message to show tech support.
• Screencap (noun) - Short for screenshot; a captured image of your display at a given moment.
• Use to share what you see on screen. Typically, press specific keys or shortcuts to create it. Handy for tutorials or bug reports.
• You: “How’d you report the bug?” Friend: “I sent them a screencap for proof.”
• Screenshot - A more formal or widely used term than ‘screencap.’
89. The comment section was full of lively debates after that news article.
• Comment section (noun phrase) - An area under articles or posts where users can leave responses or feedback.
• A place for interaction or discussion. Keep remarks respectful—some sites moderate heavily for spam or inappropriate content.
• You: “How do I share my opinion?” Friend: “Leave a note in the comment section.”
90. The refresh rate on this sports score site is every 30 seconds.
• Refresh rate (noun phrase) - How often a page or app auto-updates with new data, commonly in live feeds.
• Significant for sites offering live info (stock prices, scores). Too high might cause extra data usage or site strain.
• You: “Why do the numbers keep changing?” Friend: “They have a high refresh rate for real-time updates.”
91. The admin decided to pin important guidelines to top of the forum.
• Pin to top (verb phrase) - To keep a post or item fixed at the top of a page or feed for visibility.
• Keeps crucial info from scrolling away. Common on forums or social media group announcements.
• You: “Why’s that announcement always first?” Friend: “It’s pinned to top by the moderators.”
92. She sent me a DM on Instagram with the recipe details.
• DM (Direct Message) (abbreviation/noun phrase) - A private message on social platforms, visible only to the sender and recipient.
• Used for one-on-one private communication. Respect privacy and avoid sending spam or unsolicited content.
• You: “Is that comment public?” Friend: “No, it’s a DM, so only we see it.”
93. What’s your Twitter handle? I’d love to follow you.
• Handle (noun) - A username or alias by which someone is identified on social media platforms.
• Common in social networks. Keep it consistent across platforms if you want to be easily recognizable.
• You: “Where can I see your posts?” Friend: “Check my handle: @artist_jane.”
94. I’ll retweet that news article to spread the info.
• Retweet (verb/noun) - On Twitter, to share someone’s post with your own followers.
• Platform-specific, but ‘retweet’ stands for re-posting on Twitter. For other platforms, you might say ‘share’ or ‘repost.’
• You: “How did that tweet go viral?” Friend: “Thousands of users kept retweeting it.”
95. I had to report spam because the chat was flooded with irrelevant ads.
• Report spam (verb phrase) - Flagging unwanted or suspicious content as spam to moderators or site admins.
• Important for keeping communities clean. Don’t engage with spammers—use the site’s tools to report them.
• You: “Should I just ignore it?” Friend: “Better to report spam so the site can block it.”
96. There’s a lag when scrolling the feed, possibly from heavy images or my slow connection.
• Lag (noun/verb) - A noticeable delay or slowdown in loading or responding due to network or system issues.
• Use it to describe performance issues. Could be caused by your device, the website’s server, or your internet speed.
• You: “Why is everything delayed?” Friend: “We’re experiencing some lag in the browser.”
97. This dashboard uses auto-refresh every minute for real-time stats.
• Auto-refresh (noun) - A setting that reloads the page at intervals automatically, showing updated content.
• Helpful for stock prices, sports scores, or chat rooms. But it can consume extra bandwidth or disrupt reading.
• You: “I keep seeing the page flicker.” Friend: “It’s the auto-refresh kicking in.”
98. I added a geotag to my tweet so people know I’m at the festival.
• Geotag (noun/verb) - Attaching location info to online content such as photos or social media posts.
• Great for local context or travel posts. Remember that geotags reveal your location, so use them safely.
• You: “Why do you have that city label?” Friend: “I used a geotag for the photo.”
99. I joined as a beta tester, so I get early access but expect more glitches.
• Beta tester (noun) - A user who tries out a site or software’s beta version to find bugs or give feedback.
• Helps refine products pre-release. Provide thorough reviews so developers can improve features or fix issues.
• You: “How’d you try that site before launch?” Friend: “I’m a beta tester—they value my feedback.”
100. The site’s sitemap made it simple to find obscure sections quickly.
• Sitemap (noun) - A file or page listing all the pages of a website for easier navigation or indexing.
• Useful for bigger sites or for search engine crawlers. If you’re lost, a sitemap can be a direct route.
• You: “Can’t locate that page.” Friend: “Check the sitemap link at the footer.”
101. Her blogroll introduced me to more cooking bloggers.
• Blogroll (noun) - A list of recommended or related blogs usually displayed in a blogger’s sidebar.
• Less common nowadays but still found in personal blogs. Good for discovering niche content or building a blogging community.
• You: “Where can I find similar sites?” Friend: “Check her blogroll at the bottom of the page.”
102. I turned on dark mode at night so the screen wouldn’t be too bright.
• Dark mode (noun phrase) - A display option using darker background colors to reduce eye strain and save battery on devices.
• Mention if you prefer a softer color scheme. Many sites and apps offer it as an optional setting.
• You: “Why is your screen black now?” Friend: “It’s dark mode—easier on my eyes.”
103. I switched back to light mode because I prefer a classic look.
• Light mode (noun phrase) - The default or brighter interface theme with lighter backgrounds.
• The opposite of dark mode. Good in well-lit surroundings. Some people find it more familiar or easy to read.
• You: “Isn’t it too bright?” Friend: “I’m used to light mode, so it’s fine for me.”
104. My browser’s auto-update installed the latest security patch overnight.
• Auto-update (noun/verb phrase) - A feature where software or apps install updates automatically without manual intervention.
• Convenient for staying secure and bug-free. Keep track, though, because sometimes updates might conflict with older extensions.
• You: “How are you always on the newest version?” Friend: “Auto-update is enabled.”
105. I made my email site a pinned tab for easy access all day.
• Pinned tab (noun phrase) - A browser tab kept in place, usually showing only the site’s icon and locked to the left side.
• Helpful for frequently used web apps or pages. Minimizes accidental closures. Free up the rest of the tab bar for other browsing.
• You: “How do you keep your inbox open?” Friend: “It’s a pinned tab so I don’t close it by accident.”
106. I created a ‘Research’ tab group to keep related sites together.
• Tab group (noun phrase) - A browser feature grouping multiple tabs under one labeled set, improving organization.
• Great for categorizing tasks or topics. Not all browsers have it, but it can significantly reduce clutter.
• You: “Too many tabs?” Friend: “I’m using tab groups to stay organized.”
107. I lost my typed message when the browser crash occurred.
• Browser crash (noun phrase) - An event where the browser unexpectedly closes or stops responding.
• Common if you have too many tabs or a big memory load. Try updating or checking for conflicting extensions.
• You: “Why did your pages disappear?” Friend: “Browser crash. I need to relaunch and restore.”
108. I recognized the news site by its trademark blue favicon.
• Favicon (noun) - The small icon displayed next to a webpage’s title in a browser tab or bookmarks list.
• Helps quickly identify sites among many open tabs. Not essential, but a neat detail for branding.
• You: “What’s that tiny image next to the tab name?” Friend: “That’s the site’s favicon.”
109. Pressing Ctrl+F is faster than scrolling to locate a specific word.
• Ctrl+F (keyboard shortcut/noun) - Keyboard shortcut to find text within a webpage or document on many devices (Command+F on Mac).
• Very handy for scanning large pages. Master it to swiftly pinpoint details or references.
• You: “How do I jump to the part about recipes?” Friend: “Use Ctrl+F and type ‘recipe.’”
110. I used the magnify option to check tiny text in a scanned document.
• Magnify (verb) - To enlarge a portion of the screen or image to see details clearly.
• Different from ‘zoom in’—magnify might also refer to accessibility features for visually impaired users. Great for clarity.
• Friend: “Hard to read small print?” You: “Yes, let me magnify it.”
111. The new release includes a bug fix for the broken image gallery.
• Bug fix (noun phrase) - A correction or update that resolves an identified error or glitch in code or site features.
• Relevant in software updates or announcements. Keeping track ensures you know if a known issue is addressed.
• You: “Why’s the site functioning better now?” Friend: “They released a bug fix last night.”
112. I turned off autoplay because it kept launching random videos.
• Autoplay (noun) - A setting that plays the next video or song automatically without user intervention.
• Can be convenient or annoying. Adjust in site settings if you prefer manual control.
• You: “Why is that next clip loading?” Friend: “Autoplay is still on. I’ll disable it.”
113. They hosted a live stream of the concert, so fans could watch from home.
• Live stream (noun) - A real-time broadcast of video or audio over the internet.
• Popular for events, gaming, or interactive sessions. Needs stable internet to avoid stutter or buffering.
• You: “Is this event recorded?” Friend: “No, it’s a live stream happening right now.”
114. I started a new thread asking about phone repair tips.
• Thread (noun) - A chain of messages or replies, often in forums or online chats, discussing a specific topic.
• Use for structured communication in forums or comment sections. Keep on-topic to maintain clarity.
• You: “How do I follow that conversation?” Friend: “Check the thread—it has all the replies.”
115. I mark as read all my new emails once I’ve skimmed them.
• Mark as read (verb phrase) - Indicating that a message or notification no longer requires attention.
• Keeps your inbox or notifications organized. If you still need to revisit the message, consider marking it unread.
• You: “Why isn’t it bold anymore?” Friend: “I marked it as read.”
116. I sent a follow-up email after they didn’t respond to my initial request.
• Follow-up (noun/verb phrase) - A subsequent action or reply based on a previous message or query.
• Helps ensure no important matter gets forgotten. Keep it polite and concise, referencing the original context.
• You: “Any news from support?” Friend: “Not yet, I might do a follow-up tomorrow.”
117. The autocomplete suggestions showed me trending queries for local events.
• Autocomplete suggestions (noun phrase) - Proposed completions or corrections that appear while typing in a search or form field.
• Useful for discovering related terms. Can sometimes reveal personal or embarrassing history if not careful on a shared device.
• You: “How did you guess my query?” Friend: “Those are autocomplete suggestions based on popular searches.”
118. With two-factor authentication, my account is safer from hackers.
• Two-factor authentication (noun phrase) - Security method requiring two forms of ID, like a password plus a code sent to your phone.
• Strongly recommended for important accounts. If you lose your phone, you might need backup codes or recovery methods.
• You: “Why do you need your phone to log in?” Friend: “I set up two-factor authentication.”
119. The website’s localization changed the currency to euros for my region.
• Localization (noun) - Adapting a website or content to fit a specific region or language, including currency or cultural references.
• Important if browsing international sites. Some websites auto-detect location to tailor user experience or shipping info.
• You: “Why does it show local prices now?” Friend: “They have auto-detection for localization.”
120. I chose a short domain for my new blog so it’s easier to remember.
• Domain (noun) - The main web address or name of a website, e.g., example.com.
• Core element of a URL. Distinguish reliable domains from suspicious ones to avoid phishing or spam pages.
• You: “What’s your site’s address?” Friend: “My domain is johnwrites.com.”
121. I paid for hosting so my personal site is available 24/7.
• Hosting (noun/verb) - A service that stores and serves websites so people can access them online.
• Relevant if you run or plan a website. Compare hosting providers for reliability, speed, and support.
• Friend: “Why can’t I see your site?” You: “My hosting plan expired—I need to renew.”
122. Their hosting promises 99.9% uptime so it rarely goes offline.
• Uptime (noun) - The percentage of time a website or server is running without downtime.
• Use it to assess hosting or site reliability. High uptime is crucial for e-commerce or professional services.
• You: “Is your site stable?” Friend: “Yes, we have great uptime with this provider.”
123. They posted a notice about tonight’s maintenance window from 2 AM to 4 AM.
• Maintenance window (noun phrase) - A scheduled period when a site or system is offline for upgrades or fixes.
• Common in IT. Usually timed to minimize user disruption. Plan usage accordingly to avoid frustration.
• You: “Why can’t we log in?” Friend: “They’re in a maintenance window right now.”
124. We experienced a latency spike during the video conference, leading to choppy audio.
• Latency spike (noun phrase) - A sudden increase in delay or response time, causing lags or slow loading.
• Short-term but disruptive. Could be network congestion or server overload. Wait or re-connect if it persists.
• You: “Why did it freeze?” Friend: “Probably a latency spike on our network.”
125. The chat has autoscroll so I can see new messages instantly.
• Autoscroll (noun) - A feature that automatically scrolls content, often used in chat or reading apps.
• Handy for real-time feeds. Turn it off if you need to read older messages or details higher up on the page.
• You: “Why does the page keep moving?” Friend: “Autoscroll is following the conversation.”
126. He added a smiley emoji at the end of his text.
• Emoji (noun) - Small digital icons expressing emotions, objects, or symbols in messages.
• Use them to convey tone or feelings in casual chats. Overuse can be confusing, so keep context in mind.
• You: “Why are your messages more fun?” Friend: “I always add an emoji or two.”
127. Twitter’s character limit used to be 140 but now it’s higher.
• Character limit (noun phrase) - The maximum number of letters, spaces, or symbols allowed in a text field (e.g., on Twitter).
• Be aware for social media or form fields. Summarize your message or break it into multiple posts if you exceed the limit.
• You: “Why is your post cut off?” Friend: “The character limit forced me to shorten it.”
128. The snippet gave me enough info to see the article was relevant.
• Snippet (noun) - A brief preview or small excerpt from a webpage shown in search results or summaries.
• Helpful for scanning search results. Evaluate quickly if the page likely answers your query before clicking.
• You: “How did you know which link was correct?” Friend: “The snippet mentioned the exact topic I need.”
129. After the algorithm update, my blog’s traffic dropped dramatically.
• Algorithm update (noun phrase) - A modification to the rules a search engine uses to rank or show results, impacting site visibility.
• More relevant for site owners. For everyday users, it explains changes in search results or feed arrangements.
• You: “Why can’t I find your site easily now?” Friend: “An algorithm update must’ve affected my ranking.”
130. I typed ‘resturnt’ but the spelling correction suggested ‘restaurant.’
• Spelling correction (noun phrase) - A feature that suggests or automatically fixes typos in your search query or text.
• Reduces frustration from minor errors. Double-check corrected terms so you don’t end up with irrelevant results.
• You: “What if I spelled it wrong?” Friend: “The search engine’s spelling correction usually helps.”
131. I rely on voice search while driving to find directions hands-free.
• Voice search (noun phrase) - Using spoken commands to perform web queries or control devices, e.g., via Siri or Google Assistant.
• Convenient for multitasking. Check environment for background noise that might hinder accurate recognition.
• You: “How did you search so fast?” Friend: “I used voice search on my phone.”
132. I used dictation to write this email without typing.
• Dictation (noun) - Speaking aloud so a device or app transcribes your words into text.
• Similar to voice search but focuses on text input. Useful if you prefer or need hands-free data entry.
• You: “How are you texting without looking?” Friend: “I’m using dictation on my smartphone.”
133. The live chat connected me with a rep who solved my billing issue quickly.
• Live chat (noun phrase) - Real-time text communication, typically on websites for support or communal discussion.
• Efficient for immediate help. Often found in e-commerce or service sites. Keep your account details ready if needed.
• Friend: “Don’t call them?” You: “Live chat is faster and no hold music.”
134. I follow my favorite news blog via its RSS feed so I never miss new posts.
• RSS feed (noun phrase) - A web feed allowing users to receive updates from sites without visiting them directly.
• Less mainstream but still valuable for consolidating new posts or articles in one place.
• You: “How do you track so many sites?” Friend: “I use an RSS feed reader to compile them all.”
135. I created a shareable link for the document so team members can access it.
• Shareable link (noun phrase) - A URL intended for easy distribution, often with permissions set for open access.
• Handy for collaboration or quick sharing. Be cautious—anyone with the link may access the file unless further restricted.
• You: “How do I open it if I’m not logged in?” Friend: “It’s a shareable link, so anyone can view.”
136. The webmaster submitted a new sitemap XML to speed up Google indexing.
• Sitemap XML (noun phrase) - An XML file listing all pages of a site for search engines specifically, aiding indexing.
• Purely technical. Helps large or dynamic sites ensure all pages are discoverable by search bots.
• You: “How does the crawler know about new pages?” Developer: “I updated our sitemap XML.”
137. I had to solve captchas to prove I wasn’t a bot filling the form.
• Captchas (noun (plural)) - Challenges (like ‘I’m not a robot’) to distinguish human users from automated bots.
• They safeguard against spam. Sometimes they’re tricky, but they help websites confirm genuine human traffic.
• You: “Why do I have to pick all the traffic lights in these photos?” Friend: “It’s a captcha test for security.”