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Hacking

UK //ˈhæk.ɪŋ// US //ˈhæk.ɪŋ// Pronunciation

Definition

The act of illegally accessing or manipulating computer systems or networks.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Breaking into computers or systems without permission.

Examples

• Hacking into a database can result in serious legal consequences.
• Many companies are investing in cybersecurity to prevent hacking incidents.
• He was charged with hacking after accessing confidential files.
• Hacking is often portrayed negatively in movies and media.
• There are ethical hacking courses that teach how to protect systems.

Usage notes

Used informally to refer to unauthorized access; formal contexts might use 'unauthorized access'. Avoid using in sensitive or illegal discussions.

Grammar pattern

hacking + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'hack' as a tricky path through a forest, navigating systems.

Collocations

• computer hacking
• ethical hacking
• hacking tools
• hacking attempts
• cyber hacking

Synonyms

• breaching
• infiltrating
• intruding
• unauthorized access

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'hacker' (the person who hacks).
• Used as a noun when it should be a verb (e.g., 'hacking is fun' instead of 'to hack').