IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary
digital divide
noun/ˈdɪdʒɪtl dɪˈvaɪd/Band 8
Last updated 21 July 2026
In short
“digital divide” is a Band 8 noun that means the gap between people who have access to modern technology and those who do not. Below you'll find its pronunciation, natural example sentences, synonyms and antonyms, and the collocations that help you use it accurately in the IELTS Speaking test.
Meaning
The gap between people who have access to modern technology and those who do not.
Example sentences
Natural, spoken examples at the level an examiner rewards.
- “The pandemic exposed a stark digital divide in schools.”
- “Bridging the digital divide requires investment in infrastructure.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms
technology gapaccess gap
Antonyms
digital inclusion
Collocations & common phrases
Word partners that make your usage sound natural — the difference between knowing a word and using it well.
Collocations
bridge the digital dividewiden the digital divide
Common phrases
the digital divide
Related words
Explore more vocabulary
Frequently asked questions
What does “digital divide” mean?
The gap between people who have access to modern technology and those who do not.
How do you use “digital divide” in a sentence?
For example: “The pandemic exposed a stark digital divide in schools.”
What are some synonyms for “digital divide”?
Synonyms include technology gap, access gap.
Is “digital divide” good vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?
Yes. It is Band 8 vocabulary, and collocations such as bridge the digital divide, widen the digital divide help you use it naturally. Reaching for precise, less common words like this is exactly what lifts your Lexical Resource score.
Next step
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