technological incompetence

[tek-nuh-LAH-juh-kuhl in-KOM-puh-tuhns]
noun
incompetência tecnológica
1. Lack of skill, knowledge, or ability to effectively use, understand, or work with technology and digital tools
His technological incompetence became evident when he couldn't figure out how to attach a file to an email.
Sua incompetência tecnológica ficou evidente quando ele não conseguiu anexar um arquivo a um e-mail.
2. Inability to adapt to or master modern technological systems and software applications
The company's technological incompetence led to frequent system failures and data loss.
A incompetência tecnológica da empresa levou a falhas frequentes do sistema e perda de dados.
3. General unfamiliarity or awkwardness with digital devices and platforms
Despite her intelligence, her technological incompetence frustrated both her colleagues and supervisors.
Apesar de sua inteligência, sua incompetência tecnológica frustraria colegas e supervisores.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, technological incompetence is increasingly viewed as a significant professional liability in the 21st century workplace. In Brazil, this gap is sometimes attributed to socioeconomic factors and unequal access to technology education. In the USA, it's often associated with older generations or those from non-tech backgrounds. The term carries subtle judgment and is sometimes viewed as ageist, though it remains commonly used in workplace and educational settings.
NYC Slang
not tech-savvy, tech illiterate, a Luddite
Synonyms / Sinônimos
digital illiteracytech-savviness lackcomputer illiteracytechnical incompetencedigital ineptitude
Antonyms / Antônimos
technological competencedigital literacytech-savvinesstechnological expertisetechnical proficiency

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
incompetência tecnológica
Standard translation used across Brazil
São Paulo
incompetência tecnológica / analfabetismo digital
Business context often uses more formal terminology
Rio de Janeiro
incompetência tecnológica / burrice com tecnologia (colloquial)
Informal usage may employ more casual expressions
Portugal
incompetência tecnológica / analfabetismo digital
Similar to Brazilian usage; 'iliteracia digital' also used

Related Words

digital dividetechnological lagtech supportuser interfacelearning curvedigital skills

Related Idioms & Phrases

can't find the on button
doesn't know their way around a computer
not born in the digital age
technologically challenged
out of touch with technology
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →