software
The programs, applications, and operating information used by a computer or electronic device. Unlike hardware, software is non-physical and consists of instructions that tell the computer how to perform specific tasks.
Examples
3 of 5I need to install some new photo editing software on my laptop tonight.
I need to install some new photo editing software on my laptop tonight.
The institution requires all software to be vetted for security vulnerabilities before deployment.
The institution requires all software to be vetted for security vulnerabilities before deployment.
What's the best software you've found for making quick memes?
What's the best software you've found for making quick memes?
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the difference between a piano (hardware) and the sheet music (software). You can touch the piano, but the music is the information that makes it work.
Quick Quiz
The IT department recommends that we update our security _____ immediately to prevent data leaks.
Correct!
The correct answer is: software
Examples
I need to install some new photo editing software on my laptop tonight.
everydayI need to install some new photo editing software on my laptop tonight.
The institution requires all software to be vetted for security vulnerabilities before deployment.
formalThe institution requires all software to be vetted for security vulnerabilities before deployment.
What's the best software you've found for making quick memes?
informalWhat's the best software you've found for making quick memes?
Specialized statistical software was employed to analyze the raw data from the longitudinal study.
academicSpecialized statistical software was employed to analyze the raw data from the longitudinal study.
The company is investing in enterprise software to streamline its human resources processes.
businessThe company is investing in enterprise software to streamline its human resources processes.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
anti-virus software
programs designed to prevent and remove malware
beta software
a version of a program that is still being tested
educational software
programs designed specifically for learning purposes
Often Confused With
Hardware refers to the physical components like the monitor and keyboard, while software refers to the internal programs.
Firmware is a specific type of software etched into a hardware device to control its basic operations.
Usage Notes
Software is an uncountable noun. It is never used in the plural form (softwares) and is rarely preceded by 'a'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often try to count software. Instead of saying 'a software' or 'many softwares', say 'a piece of software' or 'various software programs'.
Memory Tip
Think of the difference between a piano (hardware) and the sheet music (software). You can touch the piano, but the music is the information that makes it work.
Word Origin
Coined in the late 1950s as a contrast to 'hardware', using the 'soft' prefix to denote its malleable and non-physical nature.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
The 'software-as-a-service' (SaaS) model has fundamentally changed how global businesses operate and subscribe to technology.
Quick Quiz
The IT department recommends that we update our security _____ immediately to prevent data leaks.
Correct!
The correct answer is: software
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
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