IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary

    digital divide

    nounˈdɪdʒɪtl dɪˈvaɪdBand 8

    Last updated 2 September 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

    • 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

    Collocations

    bridge the digital dividewiden the digital divide

    Common phrases

    the digital divide

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    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

    Use “digital divide” in a real mock exam

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