B2 noun Neutral

Database

/ˈdeɪ.tə.beɪs/

An organized collection of structured information, or data, typically stored electronically in a computer system. It allows for easy access, management, and updating of information.

Examples

3 of 5
1

You can search the database by name or date.

You can look through the data collection using a name or a time.

2

We need to migrate our database to a faster server.

We must move our data collection to a more powerful machine.

3

The database crashed while I was trying to save my work.

The data system stopped working when I was saving.

Word Family

Noun
database
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Memory Tip

A 'base' for 'data' — where all the information lives.

Quick Quiz

The HR department uses a ______ to keep track of all employee records.

Correct!

The correct answer is: database

Examples

1

You can search the database by name or date.

everyday

You can look through the data collection using a name or a time.

2

We need to migrate our database to a faster server.

business

We must move our data collection to a more powerful machine.

3

The database crashed while I was trying to save my work.

informal

The data system stopped working when I was saving.

4

The research relies on a massive database of genetic information.

academic

The study uses a huge collection of DNA data.

5

Access to the employee database is strictly controlled.

formal

Entry into the worker data collection is highly protected.

Word Family

Noun
database

Common Collocations

relational database data organized by relationships
database management handling and organizing data
search a database look for info in a collection
update the database add new info to the collection
database administrator person in charge of the data

Common Phrases

access the database

get into the data collection

central database

the main collection of data

online database

data stored on the internet

Often Confused With

Database vs Spreadsheet

A spreadsheet (like Excel) is for simple calculations; a database is for complex, large-scale data storage and retrieval.

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Usage Notes

Can be written as one word (database) or two (data base), but one word is much more common in modern IT.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes use 'data' when they specifically mean the 'database' (the system holding the data).

💡

Memory Tip

A 'base' for 'data' — where all the information lives.

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Word Origin

First appeared in the 1960s to describe a 'base' of operations for electronic data.

Grammar Patterns

countable noun often used with verbs like 'access', 'query', 'maintain'

Quick Quiz

The HR department uses a ______ to keep track of all employee records.

Correct!

The correct answer is: database

More technology words

Algorithm

B2

A set of mathematical instructions or rules used by a computer to solve a problem or complete a task. It is the foundation of how software functions and processes data.

Authentication

B2

The process or action of verifying the identity of a user or process. It ensures that a person is who they claim to be before granting access to a system.

Browser

B2

A software application used to locate, retrieve, and display content on the World Wide Web. It translates web code into the visual pages we interact with.

Cloud

B2

The practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the internet to store, manage, and process data. It replaces the need for local storage on personal computers.

Compatibility

B2

The capacity for two systems, software programs, or hardware devices to work together without any issues. It is a crucial factor when upgrading or integrating technology.

Configuration

B2

The specific way in which a computer system or software is set up or arranged. It involves choosing settings that determine how the system operates.

Cybersecurity

B2

The practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. These attacks usually aim to access, change, or destroy sensitive information.

Encryption

B2

The method by which information is converted into a secret code that hides the information's true meaning. Only someone with a special key can translate it back.

Interface

B2

The point where two systems, subjects, or organizations meet and interact. In computing, it most commonly refers to the way a user interacts with a software program or device.

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