Digital etiquette Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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digital etiquette

[ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈɛtɪkɛt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

online behavior

Digital etiquette refers to the code of behavior or set of rules for using technology and communicating online. It includes guidelines for appropriate online conduct, such as being respectful, considerate, and mindful of others in virtual interactions.

Synonyms

cyber etiquette, internet etiquette, online manners.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
digital etiquette

Applicable in a broad range of digital interactions, including emails, social media, texting, and video calls. It addresses the general rules for respectful and considerate behavior online.

  • Always practice good digital etiquette by respecting others' privacy online.
  • Digital etiquette includes not sending large files over email without permission.
online manners

Informal and friendly term, often used in everyday conversations to refer to proper behavior in any online setting, similar to how one would discuss good manners in real life.

  • Having good online manners means saying 'please' and 'thank you' in online chats.
  • Parents should teach their children about online manners to help them interact kindly on social media.
cyber etiquette

Often used in formal or educational contexts, especially when teaching about safe and respectful online interactions. It emphasizes disciplined online conduct in cyberspace.

  • Cyber etiquette is critical when participating in online forums and discussion groups.
  • Schools often teach cyber etiquette to students to ensure safe internet use.
internet etiquette

Specifically focuses on behaviors suitable for internet activity, including browsing, social networking, and commenting on websites. It’s commonly used in contexts where internet behavior is discussed.

  • Internet etiquette dictates that flaming or trolling in comment sections is unacceptable.
  • Good internet etiquette is essential for maintaining a positive online reputation.

Examples of usage

  • Good digital etiquette involves using proper grammar and spelling in online communications.
  • Practicing digital etiquette means refraining from cyberbullying or trolling others on social media platforms.
  • Following digital etiquette includes asking for permission before sharing someone else's personal information online.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'etiquette' originated from 18th-century France, where it referred to the rules of polite behavior.
  • As the internet grew in the 1990s, new guidelines emerged to help people communicate nicely online, leading to the concept of digital etiquette.
  • The rise of social media in the 2000s made digital etiquette increasingly important as people interacted with larger audiences online.

Communication

  • Non-verbal cues, like emojis, have become essential components of digital etiquette, helping to convey tone and emotion.
  • In written communication, clarity and conciseness are pivotal; digital etiquette encourages respectful language to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Using proper grammar and punctuation online is seen as a sign of respect and professionalism in digital interactions.

Cultural Differences

  • What is considered polite online can vary greatly across cultures, highlighting the need to understand diverse online behaviors.
  • In some cultures, being direct is respectful, while in others, indirect communication is more valued, which can lead to misunderstandings in digital interactions.
  • Online gaming spaces often have their own digital etiquette, where players must show respect to one another regardless of differences in background.

Technology

  • The concept of digital footprints, or the trail of data left online, illustrates the importance of maintaining a respectful digital presence.
  • As virtual meetings became commonplace, understanding digital body language and etiquette, such as muting microphones when not speaking, became crucial.
  • With the advent of mobile technology, digital etiquette now includes guidelines for texting manners, such as not interrupting conversations with phone notifications.

Psychology

  • People often feel more protected and anonymous online, which can lead to less considerate behavior; understanding digital etiquette helps foster kindness.
  • Research shows that respect shown in online interactions can improve relationships and create a more positive environment for interaction.
  • Display of empathy in digital communication can reduce conflicts and enhance collaboration among users.

Origin of 'digital etiquette'

The concept of digital etiquette emerged with the rise of the internet and the increasing use of technology for communication. As online interactions became more prevalent, the need for guidelines on appropriate behavior in the digital realm became apparent. Digital etiquette helps promote a positive online environment and fosters respectful and considerate interactions among internet users.