hack

Everyday

1. To hack means to cut something roughly with hard, quick strokes, like with an axe or a big knife. tree →
2. To hack into a computer means to get into it without permission, to steal or change information. tree →
3. A hack (life hack) is a clever, quick trick that makes something easier. tree →
4. A hacking cough is a rough, dry, repeated cough. tree →
5. «Can't hack it» (informal) means can't cope with something. tree →

In the lessons

In online safety lessons, hacking is breaking into accounts or computers, which is illegal and harmful; strong passwords and two-step checks help stop it. In everyday life a «life hack» is a handy trick, like using a peg to keep a crisp bag closed. In stories explorers hack their way through a jungle. Phrases: «hack into», «hack through», «hack away at», «life hack», «get hacked», «hacking cough».

Examples

• They hacked their way through the thick jungle. tree →
• Someone hacked into my brother's game account. tree →
• Use a strong password so you don't get hacked. tree →
• Here's a hack: roll your socks to save space. tree →
• He had a hacking cough all week. tree →
• The thief hacked the website to steal data. tree →
• She hacked at the brambles with shears. tree →
• Hacking into other people's computers is against the law. tree →
• As he was hacking at one of the roots the axe struck on something hard. tree →

Note

Regular verb: hacked, hacking. A person who hacks computers is a «hacker»; «ethical hackers» are allowed to test systems to make them safer. Safety: if your account is hacked, tell an adult and change your password; never share passwords, even with friends.