100 Common Technology Expressions ESL Teachers Can’t Ignore

Looking for the ultimate list of technology expressions to teach your ESL students? You’ve just found it. This post gives you 100 must-know expressions, sorted into 10 easy-to-follow categories that are perfect for the classroom. Whether you’re teaching beginners or advanced learners, these expressions will help your students build confidence and fluency when talking about tech.

Why is this the best resource for your ESL class? Because it’s not just a vocabulary list. Each expression comes with an example sentence and a real-life situation. That means you can instantly turn them into conversations, questions, role-plays, or even a fun debate. Your students won’t just memorize words—they’ll actually use them.

You’ll find common tech idioms, practical phrases for daily life, and useful terms for apps, internet use, and online problems. This post makes it easy to plan your lessons and saves you hours of prep time.

We also included teaching tips to help you turn these expressions into engaging classroom activities. Your students will talk, laugh, ask questions, and grow more confident using real-world English.

So if you want to teach tech-related vocabulary in a meaningful way, keep reading. This is the one post you’ll want to bookmark and reuse again and again.

Why Teach Technology in ESL?

Technology is part of everyday life. We use it to talk to friends, study, shop, and work. That’s why ESL students need to learn how to talk about technology in English.

In many classrooms, teachers focus on daily routines, food, or travel. But students also need to know how to talk about phones, apps, websites, and devices. These topics come up in real conversations, job interviews, and everyday situations.

When students learn technology expressions, they can ask for help, explain problems, and share opinions. This helps them take part in real conversations about tech at school, at work, or online.

Teaching tech also opens the door to fun classroom activities. Students can practice speaking with role-plays, answer questions, or even have a debate on topics like social media or AI. This makes lessons active and exciting.

It’s also a great way to build vocabulary. Students learn new words, idioms, and phrases that they can use in many real-life situations.

By understanding the basics of technology in English, your students will feel more confident and ready to join any conversation. That’s why this list of 100 expressions is a must-have in your ESL teaching toolkit.

1. Talking About Devices

Technology is everywhere, and it starts with the devices we use every day. In this section, I focus on simple, clear expressions your students can use when talking about phones, computers, tablets, and more. These are perfect for beginners to intermediate learners.

Common Expressions for Talking About Devices

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
I use my laptop for work.	I use my laptop for work every day.	Talking about daily routines.
Do you have a smartphone?	Do you have a smartphone or just a basic phone?	Asking someone about their device.
This tablet is easy to carry.	I love this tablet. It’s easy to carry and great for reading.	Giving opinions about a device.
My phone is old.	My phone is old, but it still works.	Talking about the condition of a device.
I bought a new computer.	I bought a new computer last week.	Sharing recent news.
She’s charging her phone.	She’s charging her phone before going out.	Describing an action with the device.
His phone battery is low.	His phone battery is low. He needs a charger.	Talking about a common problem.
I need a new charger.	My charger is broken. I need a new one.	Explaining a tech need.
It has a big screen.	I like this phone. It has a big screen.	Describing features.
He always carries his tablet.	He always carries his tablet to school.	Talking about habits.

Teaching Tip

You can turn this list into a “Find someone who…” speaking activity. For example, “Find someone who uses a laptop every day,” or “Find someone who recently bought a new phone.” It gets students moving and using the expressions in real conversations.

2. Using the Internet

The internet is a daily part of modern life. Whether checking emails or browsing for fun, students should feel confident using basic expressions to talk about how they use the web.

Common Expressions for Using the Internet

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
I’m surfing the internet.	I’m surfing the internet to find recipes.	Casual browsing.
He’s checking his email.	He’s checking his email during lunch.	Talking about online habits.
I need to go online.	I need to go online to pay my bills.	Explaining a purpose.
Are you connected to Wi-Fi?	Are you connected to Wi-Fi or using mobile data?	Asking about internet connection.
The website is not working.	The website is not working right now.	Tech problem during use.
I’m downloading a file.	I’m downloading a file from my school website.	Describing an action.
She’s looking it up on Google.	She’s looking up the word on Google.	Finding information.
He spends too much time online.	He spends too much time online playing games.	Giving an opinion.
I always use incognito mode.	I always use incognito mode when searching.	Sharing personal habits.
We use the internet for everything.	We use the internet for shopping, studying, and talking.	General statement.

Teaching Tip

Let students act out short role-plays: “Ask your friend how they connect to the internet,” or “Describe what you do when a website doesn’t work.” This encourages natural use of expressions.

3. Social Media Talk

Social media is a fun topic that always gets students talking! Here are the go-to phrases learners need when talking about Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or other platforms.

Common Expressions for Social Media Talk

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
I posted a photo.	I posted a photo of my lunch.	Talking about sharing content.
She liked my status.	She liked my status about the trip.	Reacting to posts.
I’m following him on Instagram.	I’m following him on Instagram now.	Describing connections.
He shared a funny video.	He shared a funny video in our group.	Talking about content.
Are you on TikTok?	Are you on TikTok? It’s fun.	Asking about platform use.
I commented on her post.	I commented on her post about the movie.	Interacting online.
They went viral.	Their dance video went viral last week.	Talking about trends.
I joined a new group.	I joined a new Facebook group for learners.	Talking about social activity.
I don’t use social media much.	I don’t use social media much these days.	Expressing preference.
Let’s take a selfie!	Let’s take a selfie and post it.	Social interaction.

Teaching Tip

Ask students to describe a recent post they saw or made (real or imaginary). Then they can practice using expressions like “shared,” “commented,” and “liked” naturally in class discussions.

4. Software and Apps

From editing tools to language apps, software is a part of everyone’s tech life. Here’s a list of expressions to help students talk about the apps they use and why.

Common Expressions for Software and Apps

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
I downloaded a new app.	I downloaded a new app to learn English.	Talking about actions.
This app helps me study.	This app helps me study for my exams.	Explaining usefulness.
Do you use Zoom?	Do you use Zoom for meetings?	Asking about habits.
The app crashed.	The app crashed and I lost my work.	Reporting a problem.
You need to install it.	You need to install it before using it.	Giving instructions.
I updated the app.	I updated the app this morning.	Describing maintenance.
This program is easy to use.	This program is easy to use and fast.	Giving an opinion.
I use Microsoft Word.	I use Microsoft Word to write reports.	Talking about software.
I need a photo editor.	I need a photo editor for my project.	Sharing needs.
He’s using a learning app.	He’s using a learning app to practice English.	Describing others.

Teaching Tip

Have students share the apps they use most and why. You can create a class chart showing “Top 5 Most Used Apps” and let them practice sentences like “I use X because…”

5. Troubleshooting and Problems

Tech isn’t perfect! Knowing how to talk about problems is key in daily life. This category teaches students useful expressions for when things go wrong.

Common Expressions for Troubleshooting and Problems

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
My phone won’t turn on.	My phone won’t turn on after charging.	Reporting a device issue.
The internet is down.	The internet is down at my house.	Talking about network problems.
It’s not loading.	The page is not loading on my phone.	Explaining app or website issues.
I forgot my password.	I forgot my password again!	Logging in problems.
The screen is frozen.	The screen is frozen. I can’t do anything.	Describing a malfunction.
I can’t hear anything.	I can’t hear anything on the call.	Audio problems.
It keeps restarting.	My computer keeps restarting.	Ongoing device issue.
I need technical support.	I need technical support to fix this.	Asking for help.
The file is corrupted.	The file is corrupted. I can’t open it.	Data loss problems.
Try restarting it.	Try restarting it. That usually helps.	Giving advice.

Teaching Tip

Turn this into a dialogue-building activity. Give students a problem and have them act out a conversation: one student describes the issue, and the other suggests solutions.

6. Tech in Daily Life

Technology is part of nearly everything we do. This section gives learners the expressions they need to talk about how tech fits into their routines and lifestyle.

Common Expressions for Tech in Daily Life

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
I use Google Maps to get around.	I use Google Maps to find new places.	Talking about daily tools.
My smartwatch tracks my steps.	My smartwatch tracks my steps and heart rate.	Describing features.
I watch the news on YouTube.	I watch the news on YouTube every morning.	Sharing daily habits.
I use my phone as an alarm clock.	I use my phone as an alarm clock every day.	Talking about multitasking.
He listens to music on Spotify.	He listens to music on Spotify while working.	Talking about entertainment.
We order food online.	We usually order food online on weekends.	Describing convenience.
She studies with online videos.	She studies English with online videos.	Learning through tech.
I use a QR code to pay.	I use a QR code to pay at restaurants.	Talking about digital payments.
The fridge has a touch screen.	Our new fridge has a touch screen.	Describing smart devices.
My TV connects to the internet.	My TV connects to the internet for streaming.	Describing functionality.

Teaching Tip

Use this list for a “Day in the Life” writing task. Ask students to describe a day and mention all the tech they use from morning to night.

7. Online Communication

Whether it’s email, video calls, or messaging, students need to express themselves clearly in online conversations. This section covers the most useful expressions for digital communication.

Common Expressions for Online Communication

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
I sent you an email.	I sent you an email this morning.	Talking about messages.
Can we have a video call?	Can we have a video call tomorrow?	Making digital plans.
I replied to the message.	I replied to her message on WhatsApp.	Explaining an action.
He’s in a Zoom meeting.	He’s in a Zoom meeting right now.	Talking about others.
The connection is bad.	The connection is bad. I can’t hear you.	Describing problems.
I’ll text you later.	I’ll text you later with the info.	Making future plans.
Let’s chat online.	Let’s chat online after class.	Suggesting communication.
I muted my mic.	I muted my mic during the meeting.	Explaining actions.
She’s typing a message.	She’s typing a message to the teacher.	Describing in real time.
Don’t forget to check your inbox.	Don’t forget to check your inbox for the document.	Giving a reminder.

Teaching Tip

Use screenshots or mock chat apps to have students role-play digital conversations. It’s great practice for real-life communication.

8. Buying and Selling Tech

Whether shopping online or talking to a salesperson, learners need the right phrases to buy or sell tech products. This section helps them build confidence in tech-related transactions.

Common Expressions for Buying and Selling Tech

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
How much does it cost?	How much does the tablet cost?	Asking for price.
I’m looking for a new phone.	I’m looking for a new phone with a good camera.	Explaining needs.
Is it on sale?	Is this laptop on sale right now?	Asking about discounts.
I bought it online.	I bought this smartwatch online.	Sharing purchase experience.
This brand is very popular.	This brand is very popular in my country.	Giving an opinion.
Can I return it?	Can I return it if there’s a problem?	Asking about return policy.
I’m selling my old laptop.	I’m selling my old laptop on Facebook Marketplace.	Talking about selling.
The store offers free shipping.	The store offers free shipping on orders over $50.	Giving product details.
What’s the warranty?	What’s the warranty on this device?	Asking for guarantees.
It was a good deal.	I got it for half price — it was a good deal!	Talking about bargains.

Teaching Tip

Create a mock tech store activity. Have students role-play as buyers and sellers using the expressions in this section.

9. Describing Features and Specs

When comparing tech items, students often need to describe details like battery life, size, and performance. This section includes key phrases to help learners describe and compare tech products.

Common Expressions for Describing Features and Specs

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
It has a long battery life.	My phone has a long battery life — it lasts all day.	Describing benefits.
The screen is very clear.	The screen is very clear and great for videos.	Giving a positive opinion.
It has 256 GB of storage.	My phone has 256 GB of storage.	Stating specifications.
This model is faster.	This model is faster than the old one.	Making comparisons.
The camera is high quality.	The camera is high quality, perfect for photos.	Highlighting a feature.
It’s lightweight and thin.	This laptop is lightweight and thin — great for travel.	Describing physical qualities.
It has a touch screen.	My new laptop has a touch screen.	Stating a feature.
This phone supports 5G.	This phone supports 5G connections.	Talking about new tech.
The sound quality is amazing.	The sound quality is amazing for such a small speaker.	Reviewing a product.
It comes in three colors.	It comes in black, white, and blue.	Talking about options.

Teaching Tip

Have students compare two phones or laptops in pairs. They can practice using “has,” “is,” and comparative forms while describing specs.

10. Tech Trends and Opinions

Students love talking about what’s new! This final section helps them express thoughts and opinions about current technology, trends, and the future.

Common Expressions for Tech Trends and Opinions

Expression	Example Sentence	Situation
AI is changing everything.	AI is changing everything, even education.	Giving a general opinion.
Everyone is using smartwatches.	Everyone is using smartwatches these days.	Talking about trends.
I think VR is the future.	I think VR is the future of gaming.	Sharing opinions.
Not everyone likes new tech.	Not everyone likes new tech — some prefer old ways.	Presenting a contrast.
It’s too expensive.	That new phone is nice, but it’s too expensive.	Giving a negative opinion.
I prefer simple devices.	I prefer simple devices without many apps.	Talking about personal preference.
Technology makes life easier.	Technology makes life easier in many ways.	General statement.
I’m not a fan of smart homes.	I’m not a fan of smart homes. They seem complicated.	Sharing skepticism.
Kids today grow up with tech.	Kids today grow up with tech from a young age.	Observing a trend.
I’m excited about new inventions.	I’m excited about new inventions in healthcare.	Talking about the future.

Teaching Tip

Use these expressions for a debate or discussion activity. Example topics: “Is AI helpful or dangerous?” or “Do we depend too much on technology?”

Wrap-up

Teaching technology expressions doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right expressions, situations, and examples, your students can talk about tech just like native speakers. Whether they’re using social media, buying a new phone, or troubleshooting an issue, they’ll have the vocabulary to say exactly what they mean.

This post gives you all the tools you need to create engaging activities—conversations, role-plays, debates, and more. Use it to design full lessons or to add quick speaking practice to your existing plans.

When students can talk about technology with confidence, they feel more connected to the world around them. Start using these expressions in your class, and you’ll quickly see the difference in fluency and motivation.

FAQs about using technology expressions in ESL class

Why should I teach technology expressions in my ESL class?
Because technology is part of daily life, and students need to talk about it in English. These expressions help learners join real conversations about apps, devices, and online experiences.

Are these expressions suitable for beginner students?
Yes! Many of the expressions are easy and used in daily life. You can choose simpler ones for beginners and save the more complex ones for advanced learners.

How can I use these expressions in class activities?
You can use them in role-plays, pair work, question prompts, group debates, vocabulary games, or as writing starters.

Can I turn this list into a speaking lesson?
Absolutely. Give students a few expressions, a situation, and let them create conversations. This encourages natural use of vocabulary.

What’s the best way to teach these expressions?
Introduce expressions with examples. Practice them in speaking activities. Review them with questions or short quizzes to check understanding.

Do students need to memorize all 100 expressions?
No. Focus on the most useful ones first. Recycle them in different lessons and gradually introduce more over time.

Can these expressions help with listening and reading too?
Yes. These are real-world expressions found in podcasts, news, and videos. Knowing them helps students understand tech-related content better.

Should I explain every expression in detail?
Not always. Use clear examples and let students discover meanings through context and usage.

How do I keep students interested in this topic?
Use real-life topics like social media, online shopping, or new gadgets. Students are often excited to talk about what they use every day.

Can I use this list for adult learners?
Yes. These expressions are perfect for adult learners, especially those using English at work or in international settings.